Norma Jo Hamilton

Norma Jo Hamilton went to be with the Lord on July 13, 2026, shortly after her 95th birthday. She was immensely loved by her family, friends and caretakers and will always be remembered for her creative spirit, strong determination, quick wit, and passion for travel and culture.

Jo was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert Burns and Beatrice Bostick of Harriman, TN, and her beloved sisters, Pauline Allen and Jeannine Alley of Knoxville, TN. Those left to cherish her memory are her three sons; William "Bill" Hamilton (Melissa), Phillip "Phil" Hamilton (Kelley), and Franklin "Todd" Hamilton (Channon); five grandchildren who affectionately loved their "Maw Maw;" Adrienne, Haley, Phillip, Alexander, and T.J. and three great grandchildren; Zeno, Zoë, and Bennett.

Born in Harriman, TN on July 7, 1931, Jo relocated to Chattanooga, TN in 1970 to raise her family. She built a distinguished 25-year career with American National Bank, retiring as Assistant Vice President of Business and Executive Relocation Services.

Throughout her career, Jo was a trailblazer in professional women's organizations. She volunteered her time and talents as former President and Fellowship Club officer of the American Business Women's Association (ABWA) where she was honored as Woman of the Year in 1976. She later served as Chairwoman of the East Central ABWA, proudly hosting hundreds of women in Chattanooga, TN for an annual meeting. She was a dedicated member of the American Institute of Banking, and volunteered as Treasurer for the Chattanooga Women's Council of Realtors, where she published the first guide to schools in Chattanooga, TN.

After her retirement, Jo volunteered at Memorial Hospital and was a devoted member of Hixson United Methodist Church and the Sammy Gooden Sunday School Class. She relocated to Marietta, GA to be closer to family.

Jo had a special gift for making beautiful things and an unmatched eye for detail. Whether through quilting, embroidery, beadwork, calligraphy or painting, she quickly became an expert at anything she tried and enjoyed sharing her creative works with others. These are the lasting memories her family and friends will always hold dear in remembrance of her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jo’s life on Sunday, July 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. H.M. Patterson & Son – Canton Hill Chapel, 1157 Old Canton Road, Marietta, GA 30068