Judy Beth Hamilton

Judy Beth Hamilton, born on May 8, 1943, in Waxahachie, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, at her home in San Diego, California, surrounded by her family. At “82 years young,” as she would have said, Judy’s life was a beautiful story written with resilience, love, and unwavering faith.

As a single mother, Judy poured her heart into raising her two children, Shannon and Kris, with an admirable work ethic and a steadfast love that knew no bounds. Her dedication to her family laid a foundation of faith that would carry through generations. A Registered Nurse for 45 years, Judy was also a proud veteran of the Vietnam War and a champion cancer survivor.

At the young age of 20 in 1963, Judy became an Air Force flight nurse, but her quest to serve in Vietnam led her to join the Army, where in 1968, she achieved her dream as a field nurse, caring for wounded soldiers in a field hospital. This experience shaped her profoundly, transforming her into a wounded healer whose compassionate spirit ministered to countless individuals throughout her life.

Judy was a passionate cheerleader, her voice resonating loudly from the bleachers at wrestling tournaments and track meets, always there to uplift those around her. She embodied the essence of living life fully, engaging in everything from roller-skating and sailing to boogie boarding and tap dancing. Always an adventurer at heart, she enjoyed road trips, hiking, and camping, and approached life with a youthful exuberance that inspired (and challenged!) all around her.

Her infectious joy overflowed in her interaction with family and friends; whether she was clapping offbeat, singing off-tune, or embracing the tap dance floor without a care in the world, she knew how to make moments memorable. Her love extended to taking photos of everything and everybody, celebrating sunsets and flowers alike, and finding real delight playing with her grandchildren, Hannah, Hayley, Megan, Judah, Selah, and Zoe.

A devoted prayer warrior, Judy often interceded for family, friends, and her nation, standing firm on the promises of God. A cherished tradition she shared with Kris and Shannon was her bedtime prayer based on Psalms 1 and 91, declaring, “Blessed are you Kris and Shannon…who dwell in the shelter of the Most High…” This legacy of prayer and discipleship continues with her grandchildren, embodying the values Judy instilled in her family every day.

Judy is survived by her daughter Shannon Hamilton Fine, her son Kris Hamilton, sister Sharon Crausbay, niece Marie Edgell, grandchildren Hannah, Hayley, Megan, Judah, Selah, and Zoe, along with her affectionate title of “son-in-love” given to Tom Fine and “daughter-in-love” given to Lauren Hamilton. She is preceded in death by her sister, Donna.

As the family grieves the profound loss of Judy, they are equally grateful for the remarkable woman she was, one who faced life’s challenges with unwavering faith and immense love. They take comfort knowing she is now in heaven, rejoicing in eternal worship, and joyfully reunited with her family and friends.

Mom, your legacy of love, laughter, and faith will echo through our hearts forever. Thank you for the incredible gift of your life.

She will be honored with a full Military Funeral Honors ceremony in recognition of her faithful service to her country.