John (Jack) A. Hamilton, Jr., PhD, JD, of Brierfield, AL passed away on Wednesday, October 23, 2013 at the age of 70. Jack retired as Professor Emeritus of Political Science from the University of Montevallo (UM) in 2005 after 34 years. A beloved teacher and mentor of many, Jack grew up in Cumberland, Maryland, the eldest of four sons. He graduated Fort Hill High School in 1961 and Frostburg State College, Frostburg, MD in 1965 with degrees in history and political science. He went on to earn his masters degree from the University of Delaware and then a PhD in Political Science from Texas Tech University in 1973. Jack joined the UM faculty in 1971. A Constitutional Law expert, he completed a law degree from the Birmingham School of Law in 1996 and practiced law as he continued to teach.

 

In his dual capacities as professor and attorney, Jack conducted research and worked on a wide range of political and social policy issues, constantly guiding students to become informed engaged citizens. His consulting activities included interacting with the University of Georgia (Athens, GA) Institute of Government and presenting seminars for the Center for International Trade and Security, specifically the Russian Academy of Atomic Energy. He presented Elder Hostel programs on The Federalist Papers and at one time, sponsored The Young Democrats group on campus. He received the University Scholar Award from UM for his research.

Jack was a very unassuming and spiritual man. He was a member and of the Montevallo Presbyterian Church, USA. He enjoyed travelling, playing chess on his outdoor chess board with friends, water activities, 24/7 political news and discussions with friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, John A. Sr. and Doris Jean McCoy Hamilton and his eldest son, Patrick Henry Hamilton. He is survived by his loving friend and wife, Anne Caley Hamilton of 40 years; son, J. Michael Hamilton (Allison); daughter, Elizabeth Hamilton; brothers: Thomas Hamilton (Lee Anne) of Locust Grove, VA; James Hamilton (Cathy) of Hurricane, West VA; and Edward Hamilton (Myra) of Silver Creek, GA.; grandchildren, Chance and Emily Hamilton; and dear nephews and nieces: Matthew, Brittney, Jenna, Jeff and Laura.

The family expresses deepest thanks and love to Dr. Robert Snyder and staff of Cahaba Family Medicine; Dr. Sean O’Malley and staff of The Brain and Spine Center, Dr. Susan Ferguson and staff of Alabama Oncology, Dr. Christopher Jahraus and staff of Generations Radiotherapy and Oncology and Dr. Patrick Mills, II and staff all of Alabaster.

The family will receive friends at Rockco’s Funeral Home, Montevallo on Saturday, November 2nd at 10 am – 11 am for a gathering and a memorial service from 11 am – 12 noon conducted by Rev. Leanne Reed, minister of the Montevallo Presbyterian Church, USA. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in memory of Jack to The Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, University of Montevallo Foundations, Station 6220, Montevallo, AL 35115 or to the American Cancer Society.

Rockco’s Funeral Home Directing.