Rev. Thomas Hamilton 1953 – 2024
Father Thomas Hamilton, beloved priest, devoted family man, and passionate model train enthusiast, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2024.
Born on June 5, 1953, in Owensboro, Kentucky, to Tom and Virginia Hamilton, Father Hamilton was raised in San Diego, California. From a young age, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his faith and a profound sense of purpose. His journey towards the priesthood began early, inspired by a deep-seated calling, and nurtured by his family’s support and love. As a child, Father Hamilton enjoyed playing with his sisters while pretending to be a priest, a playful foreshadowing of his future vocation.
Father Hamilton’s early years were marked by a fascination with model trains, a passion that would remain a cornerstone of his life. At just three years old, he received his first train set from his father, sparking a lifelong enthusiasm that led to an impressive collection of collectible trains. His mechanical aptitude and enthusiasm for trains were matched only by his kindness and compassion, which he carried into every aspect of his life.
After graduating from high school in 1971, Father Hamilton entered the Marist Seminary in San Francisco, where his dedication to his vocation was evident. Prior to his seminary education, he worked as a truck driver for his family’s company, Hamilton Industries. He was ordained to the priesthood on December 10, 1988, and incardinated into the Archdiocese on September 25, 2004. He served at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in San Francisco; St. Robert Parish in San Bruno; All Hallows Church in San Francisco; St. Anthony of Padua in Novato; and St. Gabriel Church in San Francisco. He served as the Grand Chaplain of the Young Ladies Institute (YLI) and the Chaplain of the San Francisco Sheriff’s Office to Sheriff Paul Miyamato. Additionally, he served as the Dean to the Sunset Deanery and was a member of the Presbyteral Council, the Parish Subsidy Committee, and the College of Consulters.
Father Hamilton is survived by his three sisters Susan Martin-Bradley (Jim), Sharon Gross (Victor), and Sandra Hobbs (Clint), and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas & Virginia Hamilton and his faithful dog, Lizzie Mae, who was his constant companion and source of comfort for the last twelve years.
Father Hamilton was known for his strong character, deep faith, and a remarkable ability to connect with others. He was a source of comfort and guidance to all who knew him, embodying the virtues of kindness, compassion, and unwavering faith. His love for his family was evident in every aspect of his life, and he extended that love to the many individuals he considered his extended family within his parish community.
A vigil will be held on Friday, September 13, 2024 at 6:00 PM at St. Gabriel Church, 2559 40th Ave., San Francisco with visitation beginning at 4:00 PM. The funeral Mass will be on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 1555 – 39th Ave., San Francisco followed by the Committal at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery, Colma.