Charles Howard Hamilton

Charles Howard Hamilton, 90, died March 20, 2013. He was born on February 24, 1923, in DeWitt. On his 90th birthday, just a few weeks ago, he was honored by the City of DeWitt with "Charlie Hamilton Appreciation Day" for his over 65 years of dedicated service to his customers and the City of DeWitt. During World War II, he served in the Army. During his service in the Army, Charlie was awarded four Bronze Stars for campaigns in Rhineland, Central Europe, Northern France, and Normandy; and a Good Conduct Medal. He was also part of the American troops that freed the Nazi concentration camp, Dachau, in April of 1945. After the war, Charlie returned home to DeWitt and opened Hamilton TV & Repair Shop. For over 65 years, Hamilton TV has been a mainstay of downtown DeWitt and has affectionately been dubbed "The Knowledge Corner." Charlie married Priscilla Browning on November 28, 1946. Charlie was an active member of the DeWitt Lions Club for over 55 years and was the "Tailtwister" for many years. He was also a faithful member of First United Methodist Church in DeWitt. He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Priscilla Browning Hamilton, and his son, Ralph Edward Hamilton. Survivors include his daughter, Nancy Hamilton Holmes and her husband, Rick, of Devon, Pa.; grandson, Matt McClellan and his wife, Mandy, of Conway; and three great-granddaughters, Abby, Keely, and Sophie, and many friends. Charlie will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family and friends, service to his community and country, and his practical jokes that he played on everyone. Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Saturday, March 23 at the First United Methodist Church in DeWitt with burial following in the DeWitt Cemetery with military honors. Visitation will be Friday, March 22 at Essex Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m. Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church, 608 S. Grandview Dr., DeWitt, Ark. 72042.