On Friday, August 18, 2023, Mittie Ward Hamilton, "Miss Mittie", a beloved mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor, passed away at her home in Bulls Bay. She was 92. Born September 6,1930 to Henry Ellis Ward and Mittie Armstrong Ward in Columbia, NC, Mittie was the youngest of four children.
Upon graduation from Columbia High School, she met her future husband, Albin Hamilton. They quickly hit it off with a shared talent for singing and married in 1949. Mittie had a beautiful alto voice and could play the piano by ear. She joked that her mother stopped paying for piano lessons when she realized she wasn't reading the music. Mittie and Albin went on to have two children, Angela and Albin (Al), Jr. Mittie was a hard-working mother holding positions at the draft board during the Korean War and later working as a secretary for the Soil Conservation Service in Williamston for twenty years. Following the loss of her husband in 1987, she returned to Columbia. When the Eastern 4H Center opened within walking distance of her home, Mittie was excited for the opportunity to serve as the receptionist and worked there from 2001-2017 retiring in her late 80's.
As one of the first faces to greet visitors at the Eastern 4H Center, "Miss Mittie" was known for her friendly smile and quiet Southern charm. Her gentle nature, loving heart, and caring spirit were well-known across Bulls Bay. She was an exceptional cook, which was one of her favorite ways to show love to those around her. During the fundraisers for the 4H Center, Miss Mittie's homemade fudge was a runaway hit, with people eager to place a bid.
Mittie also loved sports, especially basketball, football and golf. She enjoyed playing Solitaire on her computer every afternoon and was a member of a bridge club in Columbia until her physical health declined. She had a sharp mind throughout her life, and she gave a listening ear and sound advice to those around her. Mittie lived her life as a testament to the value she placed on friendships and relationships. She was full of gratitude to be surrounded by friends and neighbors who loved and supported her.
Mittie's son, Albin Hamilton, Jr. and Mittie's brothers, Edison, Gus, and Winton predeceased her. She is survived by her daughter, Angela and her husband Matt, who live in Wake Forest, NC. They have two children, Courtland, who lives in Denver, CO, and Kate and her husband David, who reside in Cambridge, MA, along with many nieces and nephews. She always spoke lovingly and proudly about her family.
Funeral service will be held at Albemarle Church of Christ at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August, 26, 2023. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Family will receive friends at the graveside following the service and at the Bulls Bay residence from 2:00 - 5:00 PM on Friday afternoon.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Albemarle Church of Christ or the Eastern 4H Center.
Arrangements are by Maitland Funeral Home, Creswell.
