Big Stone Gap, VA – Roy Elmo Hamilton, 95, passed away on Monday, October 12, 2026 at his home, surrounded by his family.
Born in Exeter, Va., he joined the U.S. Army early on and made a career serving his country for 26 years. He served in Korea and Vietnam and over his career he was honored with many medals, including the Korean and Vietnam Service Medals and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, Silver Star and Bronze Star. In his civilian life he worked as a self-employed contractor and carpenter. He loved making wooded crosses for many in his spare time and anyone who received a cross was honored by his gift. He was a member of the Legion Memorial Methodist Church.
Roy was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Dorothy Lea (Blevins) Hamilton; son, Roy E Hamilton, Jr.; parents, Schuyler and Etta Mae (Beamon) Hamilton and 12 siblings.
Roy is survived by his daughters, Dorothy Hodges (Joseph), and Mary Bellemare, both of Big Stone Gap, Va.; six grandchildren Wayne Floyd (Kathy), Paul Floyd, William Floyd (Ashley), John Bellemare (Bridgette), Amber Cress (Rob), and Roy Hodges; 13 great grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
The family will receive friends on Monday, October 19, 2026, at Gilliam Funeral Home, Big Stone Gap, VA, from 11:00 am to 1:00pm. The funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Sean Bailey officiating.
Military graveside services, by VA Army National Guard Honors Team and local VFW and DAV posts, will follow at Powell Valley Memorial Gardens, Big Stone Gap, Virginia.
Family members will serve as pallbearers.
Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family of Roy Hamilton.
To view the obituary online and offer condolences, visit www.gilliamfuneralhome.com or the funeral home Facebook page.