Bobby Bailey Hammond

Bobby Bailey Hammond, age 88, passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2014 at his home in Newnan surrounded by his family. Born on May 13, 1926, the youngest son of Dr. and Mrs. G.W. Hammond, he was a life-long resident of Newnan. Bobby attended Newnan schools graduating in June before entering the U.S. Army on September 11, 1944. Bobby served as a combat infantryman in the 100th Infantry Division in France and Germany during World War II. He also served in the 3rd Infantry Division during the Army of Occupation. Bobby was honorably discharged in June 1946. After coming home, he attended what is now known as Georgia State University, during which time he worked at Fort McPherson, as well as other sales positions. He ultimately settled for a career as a sales representative for TRW until he retired in 1991. He married Mary Cowart on June 16, 1957. They made their home in Newnan throughout their marriage. He was a member of Newnan First United Methodist Church for over 67 years, where he served in many roles including Sunday School Superintendent, Head Usher, and Staff/Parish Committee Chairman. He had a servant’s heart. He was an author, writing many articles for the Newnan Times Herald, and his memoir Bobby’s Story: From Have Not to Hell, which is in the Library of Congress. He had many hobbies all of which involved working with his hands. He enjoyed playing the piano having learned by ear. He fully restored two pump organs taking over 3 years to complete. He took pride in his yard and spent much time outdoors. He loved watching birds, bees, and butterflies as he worked. He was a detailed oriented person. The smallest item was as important as the largest His mantra was “If you’re going to do it, do it right the first time,” and he strived to all his life. As a father, he took his role very seriously. He reared his children in the church, providing love and support, strength and discipline. He was very proud of each of his children and their endeavors. He was a doting grandfather. He found special pleasure in spending time with his grandchildren, reading to them, taking them on outings, and teaching them to enjoy the beauty around them. The funeral service is Saturday, July 19th at 11 AM in the chapel of McKoon Funeral Home, 38 Jackson St. Newnan, with Rev. JoAn Kinrade officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. The visitation is Friday evening from 6 PM until 8 PM at McKoon Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed online at www.mckoon.com. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarrierproject.org/donate, the local VFW Post 2667, 130 Veterans Club Dr. Newnan, GA 30263, or Newnan First United Methodist Church Food Bank, 33 Greenville St. Newnan, GA., 30263. Along with his parents he is preceded in death by his oldest brother, Lt. George Willis Hammond, Jr. He is survived by the love of his life Mary Hammond; children, Al Hammond and his wife Cynthia of Newnan, Victoria Pyles and her husband Tommy of Manchester, GA, Kathryn Spears and her husband Stuart of Macon, GA, Anna Bergeron and her husband Mike of Laquey, MO. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren and brothers Harold S. Hammond of Newnan, GA, Hulett A. Hammond and his wife Barbara of Gainsville, GA,and special caregivers Tracy Rogers, Jessica Mcelwaney and Sandy Bird and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, great-great nieces, great-great nephews and many cousins.

Bobby Bailey Hammond

May 13, 1926 - July 16, 2014