Jim Hammond

March 20, 1942 – December 19, 2022

Our beloved Jim, Jimmy, Daddy-O & Papaw passed away at his home in Edmond on Monday, December 19, 2022.

Jim was born on March 20, 1942, in Ada, Oklahoma to Velma and Harvey Hammond. He was the apple of their eye for a few years until he took on the far more important role of big brother to sister, Judy.

Jim graduated from Northwest Classen High School in Oklahoma City and after trying his hand at college, decided working with his hands was the right career path for him. As we all know, Jim was an extremely talented carpenter and had a lifelong passion for woodworking.

In 1963, Jim began dating a boisterous Donna Wright after she called after him while he was in Montgomery Ward's. They married on December 30, 1965, and thus set off on a 57 year journey that began in a tiny one-bedroom apartment and culminated in moving into their dream home in Edmond in January 2022.

Their journey took many twists & turns and ups & downs but they always managed to stay the path together. Of those 57 years: 1967, 1969 & 1972 were truly the best. With Dana, Darcy and Dale, Jim & Donna navigated high school in the 80s and 90s, big hair, OSU Cowboys, in-state moves, out-of-state jobs, marriages and grandkids.

Throughout his 80 years, Jim was known for his woodworking skills and his love of 50s music; but he will always be remembered as a legendary storyteller.

Jim was greeted in heaven by his parents, Velma & Harvey and in-laws Don & Alita Wright.

He is survived by his wife, Donna; children: Dana, Darcy and Dale; grandkids: James, Rachel, Riley, Zachary, Ethan and Caelan; sister, Judy and sister-in-law, Linda, as well as other friends and family members.

A celebration of a life well lived is being held this Thursday, December 29, 2022, at 1:00 PM at Bill Merritt Funeral Home in Bethany, Oklahoma.

Thank you, Daddy, for 80 years of hard work, of strong love and hearty laughter. You fought the good fight and have earned your peace. Rest well until we see each other again.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.billmerrittfuneralservice.com for the Hammond family.