Doris E. Hamilton

Our beloved mother, grandmother, and matriarch, Doris Elizabeth Hamilton, affectionately known as Mama, was born Doris Elizabeth Johnson on February 11, 1931, in Baltimore, Maryland. She peacefully transitioned on February 9, 2026, just two days prior to her 95th birthday, closing a remarkable chapter of nearly ninety-five years marked by strength, faith, dignity, and grace. "To everything there is a season, and a time to every under the heaven." - Ecclesiastes 3:1 She was the youngest of five siblings: Thelma Opher, William Randolph Johnson, Jr., Mary Eva Smith, and Carroll Johnson, all of whom preceded her in death. Mama attended Paul Laurence Dunbar High School, where she was a proud Dunbar Poet, a distinction she carried with pride throughout her life. Known for her strong work ethic and determination, Mama attended Keypunch School, now known as Data Entry School, and built a successful career at United States Fidelity and Guaranty Company (USF&G). Through dedication and perseverance, she earned a promotion in 1970 and faithfully served the company for 25 years before retiring. "A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches." - Proverbs 22:1 On February 14, 1947, she married Joseph Hamilton. From this union, five children were born: Nina Redfern (Devon Redfern), Jerry Hamilton (Tonya Hamilton), Joseph Hamilton (Sheila Hamilton), Patsy Hamilton, and Teresa Diggs (Edward Diggs Jr.). Mama was preceded in death by her children, Patsy Hamilton and Nina Redfern, and her grandchildren, Marvin Redfern and Kevin Hamilton. She leaves to cherish her memory her remaining children and grandchildren, including Crystal Tanzymore, April Flowers, Anitra Redfern, Nakia Hamilton, Shanel Diggs Harris, Tanisha Guthrie, Edward Diggs III, and Marcus Diggs, along with twenty-five great grandchildren. and sixteen great-great-grandchildren who were blessed by her love and prayers. A lifelong and devoted member of First Apostolic Faith Church, located at 27 South Caroline Street in Baltimore, Maryland, Mama's faith was the foundation of her life. From childhood, she faithfully attended services and later served as a dedicated choir member: She sang on the Original Radio....Choir and the Voices of Apostolic, lifting her voice in praise and worship. She was a strong woman. of prayer, unwavering in her belief, and deeply committed to her faith and church community. Her love for gospel music extended beyond the sanctuary, as she often watched church services on television and filled her home with songs of praise. She especially loved traditional gospel hymns that stirred the soul and strengthened the spirit. Among her favorite gospel artists was Shirley Caesar, whose powerful voice and message of faith she deeply admired. Mama's prayers covered generations of her legacy, anchoring her family in faith and perseverance. "The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous woman availeth much." - James 5:16 Mama was also known for her hilarious sense of humor. She loved to laugh and had jokes for days, often filling the room with joy and making everyone around her smile. Her laughter was contagious, and her lighthearted spirit brought warmth to both everyday moments and special occasions. Mama found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved reading books and magazines about Hollywood actors and actresses. She enjoyed sitcoms, Court TV, especially Judge Judy, soap operas, and game shows, often answering trivia questions before the contestants. She was an avid puzzle enthusiast, frequently completing crossword puzzles and word searches. She loved dining at Red Lobster, enjoyed soul food, and adored the color blue, later embracing pink as another favorite. Mama's strength, resilience, faith, humor, and love for family will forever remain her legacy. "Her children arise up, and call her blessed." - Proverbs 31:28 Her life was a testament to perseverance, devotion, and quiet dignity. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered. "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." - 2 Timothy 4:7 "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints." - Psalm 116:15 "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

Tributes

Doris E. Hamilton

February 11, 1931 - February 9, 2026