Obituary of Rev Jimmy L Hammond

Reverend Jimmy Hammond, a pillar of strength, wisdom and compassion peacefully departed from this life at home at the age of 93. He leaves behind a legacy that will endure through generations. His journey was marked by unwavering dedication to service, faith, and family.

He was preceded in death by his dear wife of 58 years, Kathleen Hammond, his parents William and Elizabeth Neary Hammond and brothers, William, Eugene, and Huey Hammond.

Jimmy was born in Buchanan, Georgia on September 30, 1930. The family moved to Marietta, Georgia when he was eleven. He graduated from Marietta High School and soon after felt a call to full time ministry. He prepared for that calling at Bob Jones University, New Orleans Seminary and Columbia Theological Seminary. He became a devoted pastor for over 50 years. He served in several churches around Atlanta, Georgia before moving to the Tampa Bay area in 1973. He retired from the First Baptist Church of Pinellas Park in 1999 after serving as the lead pastor there for twenty-six plus years.

Beyond the pulpit, Jimmy was enthusiastic about the community. He was always available to those in need and would help in any way he could. He loved the city of Pinellas Park and served in many ways during his thirty plus years there. He was on the Boards for the Chamber of Commerce, the Boys Club, the Police Department, Chaplin for the Highway Patrol, awarded the keys to the city in 1998, Citizen of the year in 2004 and was about to celebrate 50 years of service with the Pinellas Park Rotary Club where he was a Past President (1978-79) and a Paul Harris recipient. His dedication and impact were felt beyond the church walls. 

Yet amidst his devotion to his calling and his community, Jimmy held his family closest to his heart. As a father, he guided with kindness and wisdom to his sons, Tim and Stephen Hammond and his daughter, Kathy Hammond Colangelo (Eric).  As a grandfather to Jason Hammond, Bergen Hammond, Erica Colangelo Campbell (Ken) and Christian Colangelo (Marina), he gave unconditional love and cherished every moment spent with them. In addition, his six great-grandchildren will hear stories of their great- grandfather for many years to come.

Jimmy’s memory will live on forever in the hearts of his three children, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and all those fortunate enough to know him. His love and legacy will continue to guide and inspire us through life.

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