Iris Gail (Johnson) Hamilton, a resident of Clearfield, KY, embraced her final journey on August 5th, 2023, as she succumbed to complications stemming from a brief illness.
Born on April 19th, 1946, in Moline, IL, Iris was the third child of Beulah and Knuth Johnson, hailing from Rock Island, IL.
Iris's professional life was one of tireless dedication and service. For nearly three decades, she gave her talents to the US Forest Service, leaving an indelible mark on the landscapes she worked to preserve. Her footprint stretched across some of the nation's most breathtaking natural treasures, including the Daniel Boone National Forest in eastern Kentucky, the Bankhead National Forest in Alabama, and the Ocala National Forest in central Florida. While Iris's career was a testament to her dedication, her passions extended far beyond the professional realm. She was a voracious reader, delving into worlds within pages and broadening her understanding of life's intricacies. Her love of travel led her on adventures far and wide, igniting a desire within her to enjoy the beauty of our world. Iris's faith was unwavering, finding solace and community within the walls of her cherished church, the House of Prayer. A fervent supporter of her local community, Iris was a loyal Kentucky Wildcats fan, bringing her enthusiastic spirit to every game. She reveled in the camaraderie of fellow fans and the shared sense of belonging that comes with cheering for a favorite team.
Iris's legacy is not just one of personal accomplishments, but a testament to the enduring love she showered upon her extended family. She is survived by her adoring children from blended families, thanks to her capacity to love unconditionally. Among them, her son James and Benita Rockwell of Clearfield, KY; her son Andrew and Alison Hamilton of Clarksville, VA; her daughter Denise and Phil Oakley of Sevierville, TN; and her daughter Joetta and Bruce Thomas of Danville, IN. These cherished souls were touched by her wisdom, grace, and boundless affection, shaping their lives in ways only a mother's love can. Iris's nurturing spirit extended to her treasured grandchildren: Ashlynn, Nicki, Brianna, Clayton, beloved great-nephews Andrew, Jeffery, and Steven. She is preceded in death by her precious granddaughter, Alexis. Along with numerous great-grand-children she is also survived by her siblings, Andy Johnson, Leonard Johnson, and Evelyn Schollerman. Iris's life was woven with both happiness and sorrow. She was preceded in death by her second husband, Glennis Hamilton, who departed in 2012, and her first husband, James Rockwell, who left us in 2023. She now rests in the eternal embrace, reunited with those who have gone before her.
Iris Gail Hamilton's departure leaves a void that words can hardly fill, but her memory will forever shine in the lives she touched. Her journey may have reached its final destination, but the ripples of her impact will continue to touch the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing her.
Services will be held at House of Prayer, 600 Whispering Oaks, Morehead, KY 40351, on Saturday, August 12th, 2023. Visitation will begin at 12pm, service will be at 1pm followed by a reception in the fellowship hall of the church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.
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