Gene Raymond Hamilton, 68 died on Saturday, February 14, 2026, in Nash, Texas.

Gene Hamilton, a devoted husband, father, grandfather and farmer.

He was born to the late Oscar and Mae Dell Neal Hamilton and was the sixth of their seven children. He attended Unity Elementary School from first through sixth grade. Then, transferred to Foreman High School and graduated in 1975. Later he enrolled at the University of Arkansas, where he met Debra Cooper, the love of his life. They were married on February 13, 1982 and shared 44 years of marriage. From this union came two children, Kayla Hamilton of New York and Cobi Hamilton of Nash, Texas.

Gene began working at International Paper Mill in 1977 and remained there for 49 years until his passing. He was a Union Representative, earning the respect of those who worked alongside him. His path into skilled labor was shaped early by Mr. James Brown, an electrician who mentored him during his school years.

Outside of work, Gene was a devoted and dedicated member of Freeman Chapel CME Church in Ashdown and was deeply connected to farming. He founded Circle O Farms and was well known at cattle auctions throughout the region. He found peace in the land and took pride in building something lasting through it.

He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, Riley Hamilton and Elle Jae Hamilton.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, his parents, his brothers - Adelbert, Lawrence, James and Cecil Hamilton and his in-laws Louise and Curtis Cooper.

He leaves to cherish his memories - his wife, Debra Hamilton; his daughter, Kayla Hamilton; his son, Cobi Hamilton; his grandchildren, Riley Hamilton and Elle Jae Hamilton; his godchildren, Dedra Hamilton, Kendrid Smith, Sa'Myah Smith and Kedrid Smith as well as his aunt, Flora Rowe; his sister, Phyllis Hamilton and Evelyn Hall along with a host of extended family and friends.

*Visitation will be from 3:00 - 7:00 P.M. at Haynes Mortuary - 7238 W 7th Street

*Funeral service will Saturday, February 21st be at the Freeman Chapel CME Church - 321 M L King Jr Drive - Ashdown, AR at 11:00A.M.