LLU&MC Scope Autumn 2000

Memorial services for Drayson Center director held October 4

Memorial services for Drayson Center director John Richard (Dickie) Hamilton were held October 4 at the Riverside Kansas Avenue Seventh-day Adventist Church. Mr. Hamilton, who died unexpectedly of a heart attack on September 25, was the only child of John and Autie Hamilton.

Born March 23, 1944, in Los Angeles, Mr. Hamilton completed his high school years at La Sierra Academy, Riverside, graduating in 1962. After receiving a bachelor of arts degree from Pacific Union College, Angwin, in 1966, Mr. Hamilton decided to devote his life in service to young people.

Mr. Hamilton's career began in 1968 as a physical education instructor and varsity sports coach for La Sierra Academy. In 1971 he accepted a position as physical education instructor and director of the intramural program for Walla Walla College, College Place, Washington.

The following year, Mr. Hamilton received an invitation from the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists to become associate youth leader. He held this position until 1977, when he became associate and subsequently director of the youth department of the Central California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

In 1987 Mr. Hamilton resumed teaching, serving as a physical education and religion instructor at Fresno Academy. He returned to the Southeastern California Conference in 1987 to become vice principal and basketball coach at La Sierra Academy. This was interrupted in 1993 when the Central California Conference invited Mr. Hamilton to come back to the area and serve as principal of Mountain View Academy.

In 1995 Mr. Hamilton returned to Southern California where he was asked to incorporate his administrative, educational, and recreational skills to become director of Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

Mr. Hamilton is survived by his wife, Melodee, and his children: Nalo Hamilton, Nika Hamilton, Nina Hamilton, Rebekah Ulibarri, and Neal Gonet.

A fund honoring Mr. Hamilton has been established at La Sierra Academy. Individuals wishing to contribute or learn more about the fund may call La Sierra Academy at (909) 351-1445. Tax-deductible donations may be sent directly to La Sierra Academy, 4900 Golden Avenue, Riverside, California 92505. Please indicate that the contribution is for the Coach Hamilton Sports Fund.

John Richard Hamilton

[Scope, Autumn 2000]