J.W. Hammer

J. W. proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War era. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, and National Defense Service Medal. His military service shaped much of who he was, instilling a strong sense of discipline, work ethic, and respect for others that stayed with him throughout his life.

After returning home, J. W. built a long career as an iron worker with Edwards Transfer Co. in Dallas. His work helped construct many of the large buildings that still define the downtown Dallas skyline today. It was demanding, dangerous work, and he took pride in being part of something solid and lasting. Even after retiring, J. W. returned to Edwards Transfer Co. as a consultant, visiting job sites and performing physical assessments to determine manpower needs and logistics for major projects. His experience and practical judgment were highly respected.

Over the years, J. W. proved to be a man of many trades and talents. He held a real estate license, worked as a land surveyor, and at one point owned and operated a daycare in Seagoville, Texas. He was never content sitting still and always found a way to stay involved and productive.

J. W. was a longtime resident of Seagoville, Texas, where he was deeply involved in the community. He coached youth baseball for many years, giving his time, patience, and guidance to local kids. He was known as someone who showed up, volunteered, and stayed active, always willing to lend a hand or share advice.

Later in life, J. W. retired to Mabank, Texas, where he spent time in the cattle business. What began as work quickly became personal. He named his cattle and treated them more like companions than livestock. Family members fondly recall seeing him walk out into the pasture and lay down among them, completely content.

He loved the outdoors and especially life on the water. J. W. was an avid catfish fisherman and known for his inventive methods, including hanging tires with cut out holes, suspended by ropes in the water along his dock. When he was not fishing, he could often be found cruising on his boat or sitting on the patio of his lake home, pipe in hand, enjoying his favorite tobacco and the peace of the lake.

That pipe was rarely far from him and became part of his signature presence, along with his stories and laugh.

J. W. was sharp witted, sharp tongued in the most entertaining way, and unapologetically himself. He was a ladies man, a natural storyteller, and someone people remembered long after meeting him. He lived life on his own terms and made sure it was never boring.

J. W. was preceded in death by his parents, Arnet and Ruby Hammer; his sister, Pearl Hazel; his first wife, Glenda Taylor; his second wife, Peggy Hammer; sons, Ronny Hammer and Bryan Hammer, and his step-daughter, Marie O’Briant.

Left to cherish in his memory are his daughters, Pam Tyler and Cindy Page; step-children, Pat O’Briant and wife Rauni, Mae Parker, Wanda Parker, Marlene Henderson and husband ‘Twig’ James; grandchildren, Joscelyn Hammer, Justin Hammer, Jordan Hammer, Eric Collier, Casey Collier, Taylor Page, Emily Hammer; 8 additional grandchildren, 31 great grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law, Denise Hammer; his brother, Billy Hammer and his sister, Arnita Shelton, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

J. W. leaves behind a large and loving family, along with many friends, and community members who will miss him deeply.

He will be remembered as a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and a man who never stopped working, giving, or living life fully.

A visitation will be held on December 19, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Roselawn Funeral Home, located at 1000 S Highway 175, Seagoville, TX 75159.

The funeral service will follow on the same day from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the same location.

A committal service with military honors will take place on December 19, 2025, from 2:15 pm to 3:00 pm, also at Roselawn Funeral Home.