Obituary of James L. Hamilton

Hamilton,James L. Age 80, passed away on December 31, 2016 in Bloomington, Mn. Preceded in death by his parents,James T & Betty Hamilton. James is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Barrow of 54 years, daughter Darla Hamilton, son Alan(Trena) Hamilton, grand-daughter Aurora Lange, grand-sons, Emanuel Lange and Myles Hamilton. A host of extended family, friends, and colleagues mourn his passing. Memorial service Friday January 13th at 11am at Edina Chapel, 7110 France Ave. S., Edina, Mn, with a gathering 1 hour prior to the service. James (Jimmy) Hamilton was one of the most admired Jazz Pianists in the region. His solos in the Echoes of Ellington concerts were prized by the audience and his fellow colleagues. His career achievements include, U.S.O. Tours through Europe, the Far East, and Latin America. In addition to playing a short stint in the Ray Charles touring band, James' other special claim to fame was being a high school band teacher for Minnesota's own, Prince, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis and Andre Simone! James was a Band Director in the Chattanooga,Tennessee and Minneapolis Public Schools as well as Instructor of Jazz Studies at the University of Minnesota, and Instructor of Jazz Piano at Carleton College, Northfield, Minnesota. His formal education was completed at Tennessee State University in Nashville, Tennessee, Michigan State University, University of Minnesota, and Minnesota State University, Mankato. Additionally, James performed as Pianist for over twenty two years at the Lafayette Country Club and at various jazz clubs, colleges and other musical venues.