John Ross Hamant

June 6, 1949 - July 21, 2017
John Ross Hamant

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Williamsburg, VA- John Ross Hamant passed away on July 21th, 2017 at 68 years old. He was born in Maryland on June 6th,1949 to the late Montz and Ruth Hamant.

He is survived by: his loving wife, Brenda; Daughters, Jennifer (Jeff), and Sarah; Grandchildren, Devon, Sophia, and Miles.
John possessed an astonishing interest and knowledge of Williamsburg’s history and with his passing, he has become a part of that history. He began his career at Colonial Williamsburg as an archeologist working with Ivor Noel Hume involved in the discoveries at Wolstenholme Town and Carter’s Grove, and the reconstruction of the Public Hospital. From his first days in Williamsburg he quickly became involved in theatrical production, performing in countless programs for Colonial Williamsburg’s Special Events and served many years as the Director of Evening Programs. He was an extraordinary man who had the gift of being both a meticulous historian and an exceptional character actor. For almost 40 years he delighted Colonial Williamsburg audiences with his ability and manner, particularly remembered for his portrayals of Benjamin Franklin, Reverend W. A. R. Goodwin, and President Franklin D. Roosevelt. To a generation of his coworkers he was the best of friends and mentors. He will long be remembered for his talent, humor, kindness, and especially his laugh.

John was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. His grandchildren loved their Poppop to the moon and back. We will miss him and love him forever.

Services will be held at Bruton Parish Church on Monday, July 31st, 2017 at 5:15PM. A reception will follow at the Parish House. In lieu of flowers please make any donations to the Heritage Humane Society or Bruton Parish Church. Condolences can be made at vagazette.com/obituaries and http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/dailypress/


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  • July 29, 2017
    Bill Barker says:
    The BEST; friend, mentor, advocate, humorist, actor, director, producer, historian, archaeologist, genealogist, pundit, conversationalist, most welcomed into company, coworker, compatriot, husband, ... whose spirit remains with us to inspire living life to the fullest! We are ever the better for you being with us.

  • July 29, 2017
    Carson Hudson says:
    I will always remember and miss your presence, advice, humor, and laughter. The Historic Area will never be the same old friend. Godspeed.

  • July 29, 2017
    Janice Rockwell says:
    I was incredibly sad to read this. Brenda, and family, you are in my thoughts. John was a bigger then life personality and he will be missed.

  • July 28, 2017
    Harriott Lomax says:
    Brenda, I was so sorry to hear about John's passing. He will be missed by all that knew and worked with him. One of my fondest memories is when we paired up as George Washington and Oney Judge, he was so helpful in assisting me as I became acquainted with a new character. That infectious laugh of his would bring a smile even to Oscar the Grouch. Love, hugs and prayers of comfort to you, Jennifer and the rest of the family. Harriott

  • July 28, 2017
    Gina De Angelis says:
    I don't know where to start or what to say. I am so sorry for John's passing. The world is a little bit dimmer, and there's a little less laughter in it, and I'm so very sorry for the family's loss. It's also the world's loss. Godspeed, John.