Edward James Hamilton

HAMILTON Dr. Edward James Dr. Edward James Hamilton passed away Thursday, October 29, 2015. We rejoice that Ed is no longer struggling with illness and its effects. Ed was an incredible person, whose life inspired everyone he met. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Pamela K. Hamilton; sons, Kirby Edward and Andrew Miles; special daughter-in-law, Amanda Rogers; 4 grandchildren, who were the joy of his life: Jayden, Ryland, Peyton, and Camden; brothers, Robert (Marilyn) Hamilton and Dale Hamilton, of DE; sister-in-law Lyn Philibosian and her husband, Tim, of CA; and numerous nieces and nephews, who all adored him. Ed was born on November 5, 1950 in Baltimore, Maryland to the late Helen and Edward Borcherding. Ed graduated from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County with B.A. degree in psychology; the University of Maryland, College Park with a M.A. in Therapeutic Recreation; and Indiana University, with a PhD in Health and Human Performance. He held various faculty and research positions at the University of Maryland, Indiana University and the National Center on Accessibility. Ed also served as President/ CEO of Virginia Easter Seals. He was presently the Director of Academic Grants and Foundation Relations for Roanoke College. Ed served as an elder at Renovation Church and, also, gave of his time and talents in many ways, including FCCs In His Image, and City Mission. He was a selfless person, who always put others first and made you feel like a better person by just being around him. He was an inspiration to many, as he lived life to the fullest, despite a physical disability. He inspired many students, colleagues, friends, and family members to serve others. A time of visitation will held on Friday, November 6, 2015 from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home in Salem. A Celebration of Eds life will be held at Fellowship Community Church at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2015 with Pastors Ken Nienke and Jon Laughinghouse officiating. In memory of Ed, donations may be made to City Mission, a charity that Ed helped to create and faithfully served each week. City Mission provides free breakfasts and shares the gospel with those in Roanoke City communities. Donations may be made by sending a check to City Mission, P.O. Box 204 Roanoke, VA 24002 or online at citymissionroanoke.com/donate. The Hamilton family is being served by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory, 540-389-5441.First Visitation

Friday, November 6th, 2015 6:00pm - 8:00pm,

John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home

305 Roanoke Boulevard Salem, Virginia 24153

Service Information

Saturday, November 7th, 2015 11:00am,

Fellowship Community Church

1226 Red Lane Ext. Salem, Virginia 24153