David Hamilton, 78, of Havre de Grace, MD, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Born on October 18, 1945 to his mother, Nellie Hamilton.

David was deeply proud of his hometown, Havre de Grace. After graduating from high school, he joined the United States Air Force, where he served his country with honor for 25 years. During his time in the Air Force, David was trained as an air traffic controller, a role that took him around the world and led to a special connection with the Philippines, which became a second home to him. He retired from the Air Force with pride, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.

Outside of his military career, David had a passion for playing pool. He was an excellent player and enjoyed sharing his skills with anyone who wanted to learn. In addition to pool, he was also great at tennis, darts and golf. His warm and generous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.

David is survived by his four children: Denise Shackelford and her husband, Ken of Conowingo, MD; Mark Ray Hamilton of Bel Air, MD; April Van Den Top and her husband, Kelly of Chandler, AZ; and Troy Hamilton and his wife, Nicole of Acworth, GA. He was also a loving grandfather to 10 grandchildren: Brandon Shackelford, Matthew Shackelford, Brittany Simmons, Ethan Shackelford, Dakota Hamilton, Brandon Rodriguez, Vanessa Garcia, Dylan Rodriguez, Ethan Hamilton, and Drew Hamilton, and a great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren.

A Life Celebration for David will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2024, from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. for visitation, followed by a memorial service from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 111 S. Queen Street, Rising Sun, MD 21911. A military graveside service will be held at a later date. David will be deeply missed, but his legacy of service, love, and friendship will live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind.