Frances M. Hamilton, 90, of Macomb, IL passed away on Sunday March 22, 2026 at Wesley Village in Macomb. She was born on May 2, 1935 in Baltimore, Maryland to William and Ruth E. (Farr) Merriken. She married Donald K. Hamilton, of Augusta Illinois, on August 12, 1955.
Surviving are her children, Ada (Rich) Neighbors of Knob Noster, Missouri, Debbie (Nick) Smith of Aurora, Colorado, Ted Hamilton of Porcupine, South Dakota, Tiger (Sonya) Hamilton of Colchester, Illinois, Amy (Josh) Hopkins of Littleton, Colorado; 18 grandchildren, and 24 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years Donald Hamilton, daughter-in-law Ardis Iron Cloud-Hamilton, a grandson Brian Edward Baird, and a sister, Elizabeth Wilsey.
Frances was active throughout her life in improving the community where she lived. As a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Macomb, she served as a deacon often visiting the sick and elderly as well as an elder in the church. Her love of baking went beyond her family to the management of the kitchen at the Rummage sale. Her faith guided her, exemplified by active participation in the Presbyterian Circle, even hosting into the last year of her life. She is fondly remembered as a volunteer for the Candy Striper organization at McDonough District Hospital in the 1960’s and 70’s. As her children grew and left home, Frances focused her energy through her work at WIU helping International Students and their families adjust to life in Macomb. A particular highlight each year was coordinating the International Bazaar. Her family and friends will always remember her kind disposition, skills in caring for us all, especially her rhubarb pie.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A family graveside internment will be held at 1:00 PM at the family plot in Augusta, Illinois where her remains will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband. Memorial Services will be held at 3 PM on Sunday May 24, 2026 at the First Presbyterian Church in Macomb. Pastor Cheyanna Losey will officiate. In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions are suggested to First Presbyterian Church of Macomb. Dodsworth Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook and leave condolences at www.dodworthfh.com.
