William Edgar Hampton

Mr. Hampton, 86, of Charlotte, NC, passed away on August 29, 2012, at Presbyterian Hospital. He was born on July 16, 1926, in Durham, NC, a son of the late Wilburn and Callie Tilley Hampton.

Hamp was a Duke University mechanical engineer with a life long quest to understand the physics of the world around him. He believed there was nothing he could not do if he set his mind to it. Hamp began his working career at the Corbit Company in Henderson, NC, designing heavy military vehicles. In 1939, he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Marshall. They soon moved to Charlotte where he served as Vice President of Johnson Motor Lines and Commercial Equipment Corporation for over thirty years. Hamp was an innovator and skilled problem solver, holding multiple patents in the field of heavy vehicles and transportation equipment. Hamp believed in playing just as vigorously as he worked, designing, building and racing hydroplanes, setting numerous national and international speed records. Hamp then turned his attention from power boating to sailing. In 1967, he built his first Y-class sailboat and taught himself to sail. By 1971 he and his wife Nancy won the Y-class National Championships held in Charlotte, NC. He continued his love of sail boat racing until his death. Hamp was a kind father, brilliant engineer, fierce competitor and stalwart friend. He always had high expectations of himself and all those who surrounded him. His love, friendship and coaching will be missed.

Hamp is survived by his son, Marshall Hampton of Fort Mill, SC, and two grandchildren.

Services and burial will be private.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wounded Warriors or to a charity of the donor’s choice.