William Hammer

William Edward Hammer (Bill), 89, passed away on Monday, Jan. 17, 2022, much to the surprise of his family and friends. He lived his life with the energy and passion of someone half his age. All thought he was invincible.

Bill was a Chattanooga resident for over 80 years. He was born at midnight on October 4, 1932 in Daylight, TN. Bill was a graduate of Central High School in Chattanooga. He was a veteran, proudly enlisting in the United States Marine Corps at 17 (forging his mother’s signature) and served during the Korean War.

Bill spent his entire career with and retired from Bellsouth/AT&T. Bill was an active member of his community as a youth sports coach, member of the Masons, the Shriners, Lions Club, Antique Car Club, Loret Boat Club, Telephone Pioneers Club, various community boards, and the VFW, Post 4848. Bill was a devout Christian and an active member of Chattanooga Church.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Brownlow Hammer and Jessie Harding Hammer, and brothers, Walter and Tom Hammer.

Bill is survived by his wife, Brenda Hammer; daughter, Starr (Dave) Marchand of Greenville, SC; three grandchildren, Anderson Haney of Charleston, SC, Avery Haney of Dallas, TX, and Sumner Haney of Ft. Worth, TX. Bill’s family also included bonus daughters, Kim (Lebron) Rector of Harrison, TN and Laura Broyles of Clermont, GA; bonus sons, Steve (Ann) Hillis of Blue Ridge, GA, Scott (Pam) Hillis of Lebanon, TN, Stan (Kelli) Hillis of Ringgold, GA, Paul (Beth) Broyles of Chattanooga, TN and Tim Broyles of Soddy Daisy, TN; seventeen bonus grandchildren and twelve bonus great-grandchildren. He cared for each with a passion and love that extended beyond bloodlines.

Everyone who knew Bill quickly realized he was one of a kind. The energy he transmitted to others was magical and a talent that few have. His inclusiveness made others feel welcomed and loved. His zest for life was evident whether spending time on the beach of Florida, playing the slots in Biloxi, MS or dancing every Saturday night at the VFW in Chattanooga, TN.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, January 23, 2022 at Chattanooga Church, 6188 Adamson Cir, Chattanooga, TN 37416 from noon – 2 p.m. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor Morty Lloyd officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send a donation in Bill’s name and post 4848 to VFW “BUDDY” POPPY fund https://heroes.vfw.org