The world became a better place on January 8, 1927, the day John Douglas Hammit was born to Oly F. and Jessie T. Hammit in Buchanan. John passed away peacefully March 15, 2024, with his loved ones at his home after a long and blessed life. While 97 years seems a long time, it wasn’t nearly enough.
In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved granddaughter, Sue Ann Watts; his seven older sisters, Anna Lee (Russell) Hess, Ruth (C.W.) Stull, Mary (J.D.) Hawkins, Margaret (Gil) Stinnett, Frances (Gil) Rollins, Doris (Fred) Racey and Norma (Frank) Wickline. Peace comes when we imagine the reunion of John with Sue Ann and many loved ones. John lived his faith in Christ every day with love and kindness he showed family and friends, and courtesy he showed to all.
Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life, Marian S. Hammit; his loving daughter, Sally Godsy, and special son-in-law Robert (Butch) Godsey; and many nieces and nephews he held dear. John married Marian on May 17, 1947, and cherished their life together, which he recently said was “77 short years.” They loved dancing, traveling, telling jokes, and gathering with family and friends. John was a proud WWII Army veteran and avid wildlife hunter, especially with his nephews. He served as a volunteer in Buchanan Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad. John began his hardware career in Buchanan and then 38 years as owner/manager of Lexington Hardware. He declined the request to run for mayor of Buchanan, but a write-in campaign led to John being elected. He respectfully declined his election.
John will be missed by all who loved and knew him. Our memories of this wonderful son, husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend are always in our hearts.
Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 25, 2024, in the Buchanan Chapel of Botetourt Funeral Home at 14920 Lee Highway, Buchanan. The family will receive friends from 12 to 2 p.m. The burial will follow the service, and then all are invited to return to the Botetourt Event Center for food and fellowship. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfuneralhome.com.
