Deacon Ross Teen Hamilton
Deacon Hamilton was celebrated by his friends and family on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City. He was interred at Fair Lawn Cemetery in Fair Lawn, NJ.
​
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
- John 14:103, NIV
Life Story
Dr. Ross T. Hamilton, Sr. was born on June 5, 1946 in Yonkers, NY. He made his earthly transition peacefully, surrounded by his children and loved ones, on April 19, 2024.He was the second oldest of four sons born to the late Reverend William Leo Hamilton and Anne Mizell Hamilton.
​
Ross graduated from Gorton High School in Yonkers, New York in 1963. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968 from Syracuse University. He furthered his education by enrolling into Columbia University's medical school. He obtained his M.D. in 1972. Ross later became certified as a medical internist in 1975 and as a gastroenterologist in 1977. Ross held positions in New York City as an Attending Physician at St. Luke's Hospital and at Harlem Hospital. He also served as the Assistant Medical Director of Harlem Drug Fighters, Inc. He ended his professional career as the Director of his own community clinic, Genesis, in Harlem. In addition to working as a physician, Ross also published several medical journals for the American College of Physicians. In 1977, his biography was included in "Who's Who Among Black Americans."
​
Spiritually, Ross was a very active member of the Abyssinian Baptist Church where he served as a deacon, and as a member of Abyssinian's general and men's choirs. In addition, he was as a former member of the Ebony Ecumenical Ensemble. He was always a true and faithful believer in the teachings of Christianity.
​
Ross had a variety of hobbies and interests. He was an avid reader and he loved playing the piano and singing in his church's choir. He also enjoyed swimming and gymnastics along with cheering on Syracuse University's basketball & football teams. Ross was one of the founding members of the New York Regional Committee of the National Bullock Family Reunion. He thoroughly enjoyed the role he played in helping to organize the reunion when it was hosted by the New York Region.
​
Ross spent a great deal of his free time, that he personally set aside, to make sure that he kept up to date.about new insights on medical issues, current events and sports. In addition, he was also a prolific writer and enjoyed telling stories. Ross was a master orator who could transform a simple event into breaking news! In some of his spare time, he loved playing the piano and singing the songs of Nina Simone and James Taylor. Ross was truly multitalented. He was also known as a "shutterbug" and developed himself into a skilled photographer, and he leaves behind photos that his family will cherish forever.
​
Ross was well known as a dedicated father. While raising his children, his niece, Andaiye, was often included in Ross' immediate family events. He enjoyed taking his family on summer vacations, often traveling to Maine.
Ross leaves to cherish his memory, three children: Neil Hamilton, Dr. Ross T. Hamilton, Jr. (Imani), Dr. Tonisha Joanis (Ferris); Former spouse: Toni Plaskett; Grandchildren: Anaya Hamilton, Azaia Hamilton, Michael Hamilton, Jadon Joanis, Brandon Joanis, and Mia Joanis; Brothers: William, Robert, and Anthony; Nieces/Nephews: Andaiye, Amore, Nichelle, and Germaine. In addition, a host of other relatives and close friends: Sheila Linton, Lynette Mays, Carla and Marvin Bentley, Deacon/Dr. Jerome Tolbert, Deaconess Evonne Jennings Tolbert, Esq., and a lineage of cousins from the Bullock family.
Ross left a memorable impact on all his family and friends. While his earthly presence is no longer with us, his wonderful spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
​
​
Lovingly Submitted,
The Family