Otis Richard Hamilton

O. Richard Hamilton “Dick” passed away February 15th at the age of 90. Richard was a supporting and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was predeceased by his parents Robert and Irene Hamilton of Indianapolis, brothers Bill Hamilton and Bob Hamilton. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Virginia Lee Hamilton Ginny, their children David Hamilton of Ft. Lauderdale, Fl., Richard Hamilton Cheryl of Fairbanks, Alaska, Deborah Hardman Joe of Milton, Tn. and Daniel Hamilton Patty of Winder, Ga. as well as 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, 2 neices and his devoted dog “Skitch”.

Richard graduated from Warren Central High School in Indianapolis. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps immediately after graduating from high school. He served in England and in the occupation forces in Nuremberg, Germany. When the war ended in 1946 he was discharged and continued his education at Butler University where he was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity. After completing his Bachelor’s degree at Butler he attended Indiana University Law School. While in law school, he was hired by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in 1951.
Mr. Hamilton served with the FBI in North Carolina, Alabama, New York and then his final transfer to Atlanta in 1961 where he remained until his retirement from the Bureau in 1976. His work with the FBI included desegregation matters, the bombing of the military induction center, the kidnapping of Barbara Jane Mackle and the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. Following his retirement from the FBI he organized a security consultants and investigation firm whose clients included the Coca Cola and Bottlers Co., Colonial Pipeline, Scientific Atlanta and the Atlanta Falcons.

Mr. Hamilton was a long time member of Sandy Springs Christian Church where he served as Deacon and Elder and was a former Chairman of Elders. He was a lifetime member of the Scottish Rite Society of Indianapolis. Following retirement he was a member of the Society of Former FBI Agents. In his retirement years he involved himself in numerous charitable and civic organizations. His career and service was very important to him. He especially treasured his long time friends and associates and was proud to include his family in his professional and social life. He always rejoiced in the support and interest displayed by his family.
A memorial service for Mr. Hamilton will be Saturday, February 20th, 11:00 AM at Sandy Springs Christian Church. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the Sandy Springs Christian Church Memorial Fund.