Marcia Patricia Hamilton

Marcia Patricia Hamilton passed away peacefully on Monday, February 16th, surrounded by loved ones. A native of Gallivants Ferry, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Lanneau and Esther Lundy.

Born on December 16, 1940, Marcia was a proud graduate of Aynor High School, where she distinguished herself both academically and athletically. She was a member of the National Honor Society, editor of the school newspaper, a cheerleader, a basketball player, and was crowned Aynor High School Homecoming Queen.

She continued her education at Winthrop College, earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education. In 1962, Marcia married Lieutenant Jack Hamilton, whom she met on a blind date, marking the beginning of a devoted marriage that spanned 63 years. The couple initially lived in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, where Marcia began her teaching career. After relocating to Savannah, she taught in the public school system before joining Calvary in 1972.

During her 22-year tenure at Calvary, Marcia left an indelible mark on the school community. She taught elementary and high school physical education and Bible, served as student council advisor, organized homecoming and Valentine events, and was varsity cheerleading advisor for 15 years. She coached Calvary’s first girls’ basketball and volleyball teams, helped establish the school mascot and colors, and authored the Calvary alma mater. Though she retired from full-time teaching in 1994, she continued serving as a substitute for many years. In recognition of her extraordinary contributions, she was inducted into the Distinguished Cavalier Society in 2021.

Marcia was an avid sports fan and her family’s biggest supporter. She rarely missed a game and could always be heard cheering loudly from the stands. She loved, encouraged, and championed her children and grandchildren in every endeavor and was immensely proud of each one.

Beyond the sidelines, Marcia delighted in gardening, reading, writing, painting, trying new things, and spending meaningful time with family and friends. She treasured vacations at Myrtle Beach, Sunday lunches, afternoon naps, and any opportunity to help others.

Marcia was the embodiment of servanthood and hospitality. With her gift of conversation and a welcoming spirit, she never met a stranger and made everyone feel seen, loved and at home. She lived out the commandment, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and might” and to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Deuteronomy 6:5), often opening her heart and her home to those in need. Her love for Jesus and passion for missions were evident in every aspect of her life. Through her faith, generosity, and dedication, she positively impacted countless students, families, and friends.

A faithful member of Calvary Baptist Temple for 56 years, Marcia served tirelessly in many roles, including teaching 12th-grade Sunday School, leading the WMU, supporting Women’s Ministry, planning and executing games for Vacation Bible School, helping in Children’s Ministry, serving on a Pastor Search Committee, and working for several years as the church’s Wedding Director. She also served her community as a poll worker and later as a trolley tour guide in downtown Savannah.

Marcia was an encourager, a straight-shooter, a go-getter, and a joyful party planner. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, a loving sister, consistent prayer warrior, faithful friend, and compassionate caregiver. She taught others about Jesus, shared her faith boldly, and led many people to a life-changing decision for Christ. As Scripture says, “She fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith”. (2 Timothy 4:7)

Marcia was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Jack Hamilton, and son-in-law, Jim Jennings.
She is survived by her son, Jackie Hamilton (Kelli); her daughter, Lisa Hamilton Jennings; her sister, Norma Ashburn; and her grandchildren: Ryan Jennings (Maggie), Landon Jennings, Jordan Jennings, Sarah Hamilton Williams (Grayson), and Jake Hamilton (Emilye). She is also survived by her great-grandchildren: Piper, James, and Ruthie Jennings, and Annabeth and Whitney Williams.

Visitation will be held at Calvary Baptist Temple on Friday, February 20th, 2026 at 10:15 a.m., followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:15 a.m.