James Thomas Blackburn, affectionately known as Uncle Thomas, passed away on May 23, 2026, in Hemphill, at the age of 86. Born on December 13, 1939, in Haskell, to Joe and Alma (Pitman) Blackburn, he lived a life marked by devotion to his family and his passions. Thomas was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dena; his parents, Joe and Alma; his brothers, Reggie and Wayne; and his nieces, Sarah and Pam. He leaves behind a loving family, including his sister-in-law, Janice Blackburn; nieces and nephews, Susie and Mike Zanolin of Aquilar, Colorado, Patsy and Charles Dickerson of Milam, Little Wayne and Stacey of Center, Regina and Mike Suniga of Terrell, Robbie Blackburn of Mesquite, Roy Spears of Hemphill, and Timmy Davis of Milam; and numerous greatnieces and great-nephews.

A skilled mechanic by trade, Thomas found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid outdoorsman who cherished hunting and fishing. Rodeos were among his favorite events. Above all, James treasured the time spent with his nieces, nephews, and close friends, who will miss his warmth and guidance.

Thomas' legacy of kindness and dedication to his loved ones will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Cremation arrangements were handled by Starr Funeral Home. Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome. com.

Robert leaves behind a loving family, including his son, Joe Hamilton and wife, Stacey; daughters, Debra Parks and husband, Gary, Tina Adair and husband, Tracy, and Shannon Bishop and husband, Eric; along with grandchildren, Michael Ferguson and wife, Brandi, Robyn Martin and husband, Brian, Kelsey Adair, Matthew Hamilton and wife, Britni, Robert Hamilton and wife, Kimberly, Gavin Bishop, Brady Bishop, Joesiah Parks and Jaxson Parks and great-grandchildren, Reileigh (RJ), Henley, Holden, Eli, Hallie Jo, Chandler, Bryce, Callan, Crew, Cambri and Caydin who brought immense joy to his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Frances Hamilton; his parents, Henry and Eula Hamilton; brothers, Thomas Hamilton and T. R. Retherford; sisters, Una Bell Cannon and Annette Conner; son-in-law, Keith Ferguson; and great grandson, Kane Ferguson.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Starr Funeral Home, 510 Starr Street in Hemphill.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026, at the First Baptist Church, 301 Mann Street in Hemphill, with Bro. Cecil Paul Mott officiating.

Burial will follow at Springhill Cemetery. Pallbearers include Carl Beall, Corey Simpson, Tommy Scales, Kevin Dutton, Roger Mitchell, and Anthony Page, with honorary pallbearers Don Holcomb, Mark Gandy, Blacky Seales, Lee Dutton, Thad Smith, Ron Ray, and Steve Arney.

Robert Hamilton's life was one of service, love, and dedication to his family and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Arrangements were handled by Starr Funeral Home. Memories and condolences may be shared at starrfuneralhome.com.