Centenarian celebrates

On November 8, 1919, a remarkable person was born. It was a Saturday and while no major news events happened, parents Nolie and Homer Hamilton welcomed a baby boy. Mr. Morris Hamilton was born at home in Center Grove. As a youngster, Mr. Hamilton worked in the cotton fields and was well renowned for his speed and skills, being able to pick 400 pounds a day. In the 1940’s he traded the cotton fields for the oil fields of Snyder, Texas where he worked until 1949. It was in 1953 that he landed a job at the Lone Star Steel Mill. There he worked until 1983 when he retired.

When asked what his favorite decade was, Mr. Hamilton took no time in saying it was the 1930’s. It was during this decade that Mr. Hamilton graduated. An even more significant event also occurred for Mr. Hamilton during this decade. In 1938, he married the love of his life, Maxine. They spent 72 years happily married until her passing in 2010. They had three sons, Gary, Sammy, and David.

Mr. Hamilton celebrated his 100th birthday at Focused Care of Linden where he was surrounded by many friends and family, including a great great grandchild, great-grandchild, Cousins Joy Conway and Shirley Lollar, and sister Margret Allison who is, herself, 97 years young. He was presented with a certificate sent from Governor Greg Abbott and enjoyed a Dallas Cowboy themed birthday cake.

A question most often asked of those who have lived 100 years is what their secret to such a long life is. Mr. Hamilton, who is sharp as a tack, answered with a very honest no idea. He can say that he is very blessed, though.

The most important thing Mr. Hamilton has learned in his 100 years is to listen. In fact, this lesson is so important to him, that it is also his advice to younger generations. He says when someone speaks, listen to them. Listen to what they have to say. Indeed, these are very wise words from a man who is as remarkable as the long and blessed life he is living.