Segrest Hamilton

Segrest Hamilton, born on September 17, 1936, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Samuel and Mary Hamilton, has lived a life rich with love, wisdom, and adventure. A man of integrity and strength, Segrest has been a pillar of his community, family, and friends, leaving a legacy of dedication and compassion. Segrest's early life in Memphis was shaped by the values instilled by his parents and shared with his siblings, Samuel Jr. and Ellie, who have since passed. His educational journey began at Booker T. Washington High School, from which he graduated in 1954. With a steadfast commitment to furthering his education, Segrest pursued a Bachelor’s Degree at Jackson State University, graduating in 1958. His academic achievements were a testament to his perseverance and became a source of inspiration for his family. Segrest embarked on a distinguished career in engineering, dedicating over four decades as a civil engineer. His work, characterized by intelligence and precision, contributed significantly to community development projects. He retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and a commitment to improving the world around him. A man of deep faith, Segrest has been a devoted member of Beale Street Baptist Church for over sixty years. His involvement with the church has provided him with a spiritual foundation and a supportive community that has nurtured him throughout his life. Beyond his professional and spiritual endeavors, Segrest has found joy in the great outdoors. An avid fisherman and hunter, he cherished the serenity and camaraderie that these activities provided. Whether by the water or in the woods, Segrest's love for nature was a cherished aspect of his life, and he created countless memories with family and friends during these peaceful moments. Segrest has shared a profound and loving relationship with his significant other, Betty Hunter. Their bond has been one of companionship, laughter, and mutual respect, creating treasured memories that will endure in their hearts. Family has always been central to Segrest's life. He is the proud father of Vera, Pearlie, Greg, Pam, and Pammela, and the loving grandfather to a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family remains a testament to his enduring legacy of love, wisdom, and guidance. Segrest's life has been enriched by the friendships he has cultivated with individuals like Clarence Brooks, Willie Turner, James Carter, Robert Freeman, and Earnest Mitchell. Segrest is remembered for his calm strength, sense of humor, and the warm comfort he offered to those around him. A natural storyteller, he had a gift for turning ordinary moments into cherished memories, and his advice and wisdom were valued by all who knew him. In honoring Segrest Hamilton, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy of love and integrity. The family requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in his honor. Segrest's family shares this special message: “Don’t measure my life by the day I left you. Measure it by the love, lessons, laughter, and memories I left behind. Keep your family close, love one another, forgive when you can, and never be too busy to tell someone you love them. My greatest joy was knowing that the people I loved were doing well. When you miss me, look around at the family I loved so dearly and remember that a part of me will always live through you. Keep going, keep praying, keep laughing, and keep making me proud.” A service to honor Segrest Hamilton is planned at Beale Street Baptist Church, located at 379 Beale Street, Memphis, Tennessee, 38103.