Delores Hammon Obituary

WINDHAM

Delores Dee Hammon, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, cherished educator, and devoted community servant, passed away on November 9, 2024.

Dee was born in Bloomingdale, Michigan, Dee later met and married her loving husband, Dale Hammon on August 28, 1948, where they raised four sons there. The family moved to Connecticut in 1962 where she went back to college pursuing a teaching career. Her life was marked by a dedication to learning, teaching, and volunteering. She left an indelible impact on the lives of many.

Dee started school in a one room country schoolhouse, The Munn Country School, later graduating from Bloomingdale High School in 1947 as Valedictorian. Her passion for education led to a bachelors degree in education from Eastern Connecticut State College followed by a masters in education from the University of Connecticut. Her achievements laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in education.

For 35 years, Dee devoted herself to nurturing young minds teaching first-graders, first at Franklin Elementary School and finally at Windham Center School. Her dedication to her students was evident, and her influence extended well beyond the classroom. Dee's involvement in the community was far-reaching. As a longtime substitute after retirement, she helped provide educational opportunities to countless students. Her commitment to education endured through her retirement as a member of the Education Association of Connecticut. Moreover, Dee's selflessness shone brightly where she served at the First Congregational Church of Windham Center. She was a beloved member and a constant presence for over thirty years.

Beyond her professional and volunteer endeavors, Dee had a zest for life with her great love for her family as her highest priority. Those who knew Dee would describe her as a strong, intelligent, kind, and selfless woman. Her gift of hospitality and her kindness, acceptance and encouragement coupled with an ability to engage with people from all walks of life, was felt by everyone she met. Her selflessness was evident as she constantly put the needs of others before her own.

Dee was predeceased by her parents Adolph and Thelma Blust, her sister, Norene Sweet and grandson, Jeffrey Hammon. She is survived by her loving husband, Dale; they were married for 76 years. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jean Ely; her four sons, Bill, Marty, Jim, Tom and their wives; eight grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren; along with many nephews, nieces as well as close friends and past students that have kept in close touch with her over the years.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to join her family for calling hours at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson Street, Willimantic, CT, on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Funeral Services begin at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at the First Congregational Church of Windham Center, 4 Windham Center Road, Windham, CT immediately followed by burial service at the Windham Center Cemetery, Windham, CT and returning to the church for a Celebration of Life. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Dee to Whippet Readers. Checks can be made out to: Windham High School, please add on the memo or 'for' line, Whippet Readers, 355 High Street, Willimantic, CT 06226. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.

Delores Dee Hammon