Clenastine Joyce Hamilton

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Advantage by Schoedinger North at 5554 Karl Road in Columbus. Family and friends will meet for a Graveside and Interment Service on Friday, November 22, 2024, at 12:00 PM at Ottawa Hills Memorial Park, 4210 Central Avenue in Toledo, 43606.

On November 7, 2024, the world bid a bittersweet farewell to a remarkable woman, Clenastine Joyce Hamilton. She was born June 25, 1931, in Nashville, Tennessee, to the union of James and Elizabeth Fletcher.

Clenastine lived a full, adventurous, and vibrant life, always spreading kindness and joy wherever she went. She was known for her warm smile and caring demeanor. Clenastine will be remembered for her unwavering positivity and lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

A Tennessee A&I State University and Meharry Medical College graduate, she was one of the first two Black Registered Nurses employed at Toledo Hospital. Her leadership and skills promoted her to a supervisor in the Nursing Services Department. She later became a “Visiting Nurse” for the Toledo Health Department. Clenastine touched the lives of countless patients with her compassionate care and kindness. Her selflessness knew no bounds, and her commitment to serving others was truly awe-inspiring.

Not only did Clenastine excel in her profession, but early in her life, she also proudly served her country in the Army during the Korean Conflict, earning the rank of Corporal. She served in Okinawa, Japan, as an interviewer for and presenter of the Purple Heart Medal to those wounded in battle. Her bravery, courage, and patriotism were unwavering, earning her the respect and admiration of those who knew her.

Part of the story of her military experiences is included in the Veterans History Project and can be heard in the Library of Congress tapes. She donated a WAC purse, which is displayed at a DC military museum. After moving to Columbus, Ohio, she traveled on a Veterans’ Honor Flight to Washington, DC, to see the Veteran’s Memorial Wall.

In Toledo, Clenastine Hamilton was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Red Hatters, and Federated Women’s Club, working with G.L.A.D. to mentor young girls. She was an early member of the Toledo Council of Black Nurses. After moving to Columbus, she enjoyed activities at Westerville Senior Citizens Center and Gillie Community Center.

Clenastine was married to her loving husband, Stanley E. Hamilton, for 38 years. Together, they were blessed with a son, Reginald Hamilton (Elaine Hamilton). She adored her family and was a devoted grandmother to Donovan Hamilton and Maliyah Hamilton.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley; parents, James and Elizabeth; sister, Dorothy Martindale; brother, James Fletcher Jr.; and niece, Deborah Martindale. She is also survived by sister Margaret -Bobbylee- Hawkins, nieces Avie (Edward) Dixon

Carolyn Thompson and Althea (Gregory) McClelland and nephews James Fletcher III and

Johnny (Yolanda) Fletcher, friend Joanie Bailey, friend and classmate Bernadine Fleming, and a host of relatives and friends.

Clenastine’ s impact on the world and the lives she touched will forever be remembered and cherished. She leaves a legacy of love, service, and sacrifice that will continue to inspire and uplift those fortunate enough to have crossed her path.

As we mourn the loss of Clenastine Hamilton, let us also celebrate her extraordinary life and the profound difference she made in the world. May her spirit live on in all who knew and loved her.

She leaves a legacy of love and laughter that will continue to inspire those she touched. Rest in peace, Clenastine. You will be dearly missed.