Memorial to...

Kyle Ray Hammonds
23 July, 1930 - 11 April, 2007
 

Kyle and Lorine Hammonds ~1954

Kyle and Lorine Hammonds Valentine's Day Banquet at the Apostolic Ministries Church

Seldom can it be said of someone that they were so many wonderful things to so many people. Kyle R. Hammonds was just that kind of man. Born in Scott County, VA he was a true Southern gentleman, someone that, if you hadn't know him, you would've wished you had.

He was a soldier, serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a good husband, hard-working, and a provider for his family. He loved his wife of fifty-four years and he was so proud of his boys- all four of them. He had a special place in his heart for his daughters-in-law, never missing an opportunity to joke with them. And, oh, how he loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren! Family was so important to him and over the years there was a lot of love and laughter shared.

He was so wise, always having sound advice when asked. He was honest and fair, a true friend. He was always there and was always willing to lend a helping hand.

Among the things he loved to do he was an avid hunter and loved carpentry as well. Known for his ability in, and love of, woodwork he put in countless hours in his shop out behind the house.

After retiring from the assembly department of Cole Steel he became self-employed as a carpenter. He built his own home and would later help build the homes of two of his sons. Drive in any given direction in York County and you will most likely pass by something that Kyle Hammonds had a hand in building.

Kyle was also a true miracle. It was while working on the roof of a local home that he walked backward off of the rooftop, landing in a sitting position. With his spine and vertebrae crushed like an accordion the doctors said he would never walk again. But a church prayed and about a week later he walked out of the hospital, on his own, with the x-rays showing only scars where broken bones had healed. He had such a testimony and he loved to share it.

Kyle also loved his church. If there was a project going on, or construction work to be done, he was right there in the middle of it. He rarely missed a Sunday and could often be heard asking, in his Southern drawl, "Well, how many did we have today?" He loved when the fall came around because that meant the start of the annual pumpkin roll sales. He loved helping his wife make those pumpkin rolls!

In March of 2000 Kyle was diagnosed with Multiple Myloma, a then rare form of bone cancer. The prognosis was not good; he was given three months to live. But, again, a church prayed. After being in the hospital for three weeks he came home and his condition steadily improved. He eventually went into complete remission.

The average length of time in remission for someone with Multiple Myloma is about four years. God blessed Kyle Hammonds, and his family, with seven more good years of life. Seven- God's perfect number of completion. Through it all he never complained, even in the last weeks of his life.

On April 11, 2007 God called Kyle R. Hammonds home. Though he is greatly missed we can rejoice in knowing that he has no more pain, no more sorrow. We have a lifetime of memories that will forever keep him alive in our hearts. And we know that, one day, we will see him again. Until that day we don't say "Goodbye," but only "See you later." We love you Dad, Papaw, friend...

Kyle and Lorine with their boys: (L to R) Wayne, David, Roger, and Scott
~2005