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"He worked hard to bring recognition to Western Carolina athletics," said emcee Steve White during a ceremony Labor Day honoring Jim "Doc" Hamilton on his 80th birthday.
"Big into sports, but bigger into trout fishing"; "the power force behind women's athletics at Western Carolina University"; "an old soldier who can recite the Declaration of Independence by heart"; "characteristically humble"; "a dear friend"; "someone who helps people"; "a fair man who always stuck by his word"; and "a tremendous leader in all fields" were some of the other tributes paid to Hamilton during the surprise party held at the WCU picnic area. Hamilton, who was dean of the health and physical education department, retired in 1988 after 22 years at WCU. Former president of the National Intercollegiate Athletic Association and a member of the Olympic committee, Hamilton's connections greatly benefitted WCU, White said. Hamilton has two sons: Bill Hamilton, who lives in Las Vegas, and John Hamilton, who is at Lenoir Rhyne; one daughter, Beth Gorman, who lives in Kansas; and three grandchildren. |