08/27/2026
Raymond T. Hamilton, age 83, of Memphis, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 23, 2026. He was born on October 30, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee.
Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1962 to 1965, receiving an Honorable Discharge for his service.
Ray devoted more than 52 years to Freemasonry, a lifelong passion that brought him great purpose, fellowship, and opportunities to serve others. He was initiated as an Entered Apprentice on July 5, 1973, passed to the Degree of Fellow Craft on August 2, 1973, and was raised to the degree of Master Mason on September 22, 1973, all at O.K. Houck Lodge No. 707. He served as Worshipful Master of O.K. Houck Lodge No. 707 in 1983 and later as Worshipful Master of White Station–O.K. Houck Lodge No. 95 in 2004.
Throughout his Masonic journey, Ray served as Grand Photographer of the Grand Lodge of Tennessee, received the Unity Lodge Ken Doyle Award for Masonic Excellence, served on the Board of Control of the Masonic Widows & Orphans Home of Tennessee Fund, and spent decades as a respected Lodge Instructor, mentoring countless Masons throughout District 1. In 2013, he was coroneted a 33° Inspector General Honorary in the Scottish Rite. He was also a Scottish Rite ritualist, longtime Degree Master of the 21st Degree, a supporter of the York Rite Bodies and Al Chymia Shrine, and a recipient of the DeMolay Honorary Legion of Honor. His dedication to Freemasonry and the friendships he built through the Lodge were among the greatest joys of his life.
Throughout his career, Ray was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to tackle any challenge. During the 1970s, he worked as a truck driver for Red Ball Motor Freight. In the 1980s, he worked for D&W Plating Company in Memphis. Later, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, he owned and operated his own small engine repair shop in Whitehaven, where he enjoyed helping customers and working with his hands.
Ray embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved golfing until health challenges made it impossible to continue. When he wasn't on the golf course, he could often be found enjoying another favorite pastime—visiting casinos. He especially looked forward to his annual trips to Las Vegas with his wife, Jean, a tradition they enjoyed until the COVID pandemic. His true happy place, however, was Biloxi, Mississippi, where he loved spending time and making memories. He also enjoyed visiting the many casinos throughout the Memphis area.
Those who knew Ray will remember his infectious laughter, quick wit, and genuine love for people. He never met a stranger and had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. Whether sharing a joke, offering a warm hug, or striking up a conversation with someone he'd just met, Ray had a gift for making others smile. He especially enjoyed meeting new people—and was always known to appreciate the company of beautiful women, a trait he joked about often. His joyful spirit, generous heart, and ability to live fully in the moment made him someone people naturally gravitated toward.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents, James A. Hamilton Jr. and Clara Paige Hamilton; his sister, Mary Bobby; and his brother, James E. Hamilton.
He leaves behind to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 46 years, Jean C. Hamilton; his stepdaughter, Jody Wissingof Dallas, Texas; grandsons Cole Wissing and Joe Wissing, both of Dallas, Texas; his sister, Betty Eaton of Oklahoma, and her husband, Craig, along with their son, Jason; his brother, Carmen Hamilton; his niece, Connie Juskow of South Carolina, and her son, Jack; his nephew, Lt. Commander Vince Hamilton, USN (Ret.), and his wife, Julie, of Hawaii; along with many extended family members, cherished friends, and his many Brothers of White Station–O.K. Houck Lodge No. 95.
Ray's legacy is one of laughter, friendship, service, and kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but will live on in the countless memories he created and the lives he touched. His smile, generous hugs, and joyful spirit will never be forgotten.
