| Senate remembers Milton Hamilton |
|
Posted: Friday, April 17, 2009 8:01 pm
|
By JOHN BRANNON
Messenger Staff Reporter
One of Union City’s finest and friendliest was formally honored Monday in Nashville.
Milton Hamilton Jr., long a familiar figure on the local landscape, was the subject of an official resolution passed by the Tennessee Senate.
Hamilton, a former state representative, state senator and Environmental commissioner, died in September.
A native son of Obion County, he and his wife, the former Mary Tisdale White — “Dale,” as she was affectionately known — lived in Franklin when he retired from public service in 2003. She preceded him in death.
The Hamiltons are survived by two sons, Milton Hugh Hamilton III and David Blanton Hamilton; their daughter, Ann Hamilton; three granddaughters, Ally (Hamilton) Wingo, Lauren Hamilton and Margaret Hamilton; and two grandsons, Blanton Hamilton and Matt Hamilton.
A graduate of Union City High School and Murray (Ky.) State University, Hamilton was active in both military and civilian roles.
A long-time member of the Tennessee National Guard, he had advanced to the rank of colonel when he retired from military service in 1977.
In the civilian sector, he served on the Union City Board of Education 1960-64; in the state House of Representatives 1965-69; and in the state Senate 1969-96. In 1996, he was appointed commissioner of Environment & Conservation by then-Gov. Don Sundquist. He held that post until he retired in 2003.
The Senate resolution reads in part:
“Whereas, Senator Hamilton leaves behind an indelible legacy of integrity and probity in public life, compassion and loyalty in private life, and diligence and dedication in all his chosen endeavors ...
“Be it resolved ... that we honor the memory of our former colleague, Milton Hamilton Jr., reflecting fondly upon his impeccable character as a legislator, public servant and human being, and commend his stalwart commitment to living the examined life with courage and conviction.”
Hamilton’s son, David, president and chief executive officer of the Dickson County Chamber of Commerce, said he was proud to attend the Senate session and witness lawmakers memoralizing his father.
“Our family was very appreciative the Senate honored Dad for his many years of public service in the legislature and serving as commissioner of Environment and Conservation under Governor Sundquist,” Hamilton said. “He dedicated much of his life trying to make a difference and representing the interests of his constituents.
“It was an honor to be on the Senate floor receiving this (formal resolution) for Dad. It brought back many fond memories for me and my family.”
Published in The Messenger 4.17.09
|
|
Printer-friendly format
|
|
