Israel Newell

Hamilton "Buddy"

SHELBY- Israel Newell Hamilton Sr., born September 23, 1937, in York, South Carolina, peacefully passed away on November 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family at the age of 89.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Israel retired from the Department of Transportation for the State of North Carolina, where he served with commitment and integrity. Beyond his professional life, he was very talented and had a deep passion for music, especially bluegrass and gospel, which filled his life with joy and inspiration.

Israel was a faithful member of Way Of The Cross Free Will Baptist Church, where his spirit and devotion touched many. He was preceded in death by his parents, Conrad and Notra Hamilton, his step-son Jeff Wright, and several beloved sisters and brothers.

He is warmly remembered and deeply missed by his loving wife, Margaret Hamilton; his sons, Israel Hamilton Jr. and wife Kimberly, Curtis Hamilton and wife Donna; his daughter, Jean Hamilton Funderburk and husband Buddy; and his sister, Tillie Black of Cherryville. Israel also leaves behind a cherished legacy through his grandchildren Sara Fink and husband Michael, Jason Hamilton and wife Jennifer, Wesley Hamilton and wife Molly Poe, Johnny Hamilton and wife Brandy, Amber Durham and husband Freedom, Kimberly Alder and husband Casey, as well as his great-grandchildren James Fink, Adlai Fink, Malachi Hamilton and wife Randie, Garrett Hamilton, Aaron Hamilton, Brandon Hamilton, Tucker Alder, Kylie Dellinger, Eveligh Durham, Essley Durham, and numerous great-great-grandchildren.

The family will celebrate Israel’s remarkable life on Monday, November 16th, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home. Friends are welcome to visit with the family one hour prior to the service. Entombment will directly follow at Cleveland Memorial Park.

Israel Newell Hamilton Sr.’s life was a testament to love, faith, and dedication. His music, warmth, and kindness will continue to inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of joy and inspiration that will resonate for generations to come.

Services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center www.claybarnette.com