James R. Hamilton

Lock Haven - James R. Hamilton, Sr., 82, passed away March 17, 2009. He was a resident of Oakridge Personal Care Home, where he had lived under wonderfully caring hands for 13 years. Jim was born May 28, 1926 in New Galilee, PA, to the late Floyd and Mary Hamilton. He graduated from Mount Jackson High School in 1944, after which time he enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Force. After WWII, he attended Edinboro State College, graduating in 1951 with a degree in art education. He taught art in Springdale, PA, from 1951 to 1953, then in New Castle, PA, from 1953 to 1963. After earning a Master's degree from Syracuse University, Jim accepted a position as media specialist in the Marcellus, New York School District until 1969. In 1969, Jim accepted a position at Lock Haven State College, teaching audio-visual and elementary education practices to prospective teachers. After 22 years, he retired from LHU in 1992. Jim was well known in Lock Haven for his community-minded work, serving on different boards in various capacities. Jim was involved in the Lock Haven Rotary Club, the Community Chorus, served on the board of Millbrook Playhouse and was a member of the Great Island Presbyterian Church. Many a person or organization had received one of his hand-lettered certificates, treasures before computers made calligraphy less important as an art form. Jim was well known for his baritone voice. In 1959, he was a member of a Grange quartet from New Galilee that won second place nationally for their performance. In Lock Haven, Jim lent his baritone as a soloist in numerous productions, including The Messiah and Elijah, among others. Jim Hamilton will be remembered by his friends and family for his quiet dignity, his quest for beauty in our world, and the sanctity of all life unfettered by prejudice. Jim is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Elsie F. Henry, sons James R., Jr. (Georgianne) of Linden, PA and Charles S. (Dianne) of Longmont, CO and daughters Janice F. (Charles) Saffel of Williamsport and Mary E. Vuccola of Lock Haven. There are eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. A member of a large family, Jim is also survived by his sisters Jane Jackson, Martha Black, Mildred Steinecke, Mary Lou Black and Alice Thompson as well as brothers John and Paul. He was preceded in death by one Sister, Helen Edwards. A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held 11:00 A.M., Saturday, May 2, 2009 at the Helt Funeral Chapel, 232 Hogan Blvd., Mill Hall. Friends and relatives will be received at the funeral chapel one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the James R. and Elsie F. Hamilton Scholarship Fund through the LHU Foundation. Online condolences can be sent to www.bestlifetributes.com