Jane Hamilton

Jane Ellen Hamilton died December 31, at her home. She was born in Huntington West Virginia on September 4, 1928. The daughter of Dewey and Phyllis Queen, she spent her young years in Huntington along with her beloved sister, Dolores. She and Dolores spent a lot of their childhood singing and dancing. Continuing to sing, Jane attended West Virginia University where she was active in the Pi Beta Phi sorority as the chapter choir lead. During her time at West Virginia University she participated in campus plays and was awarded the title of Miss West Virginia, 1948. She competed in the Miss America Pageant in Atlantic City that same year. She completed her Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1950. Following college Jane returned to Huntington, West Virginia where she taught English and drama while also working at a local radio station. In 1954, Jane traveled to California to be with her college sweetheart, Dr. James Hamilton (Jim). She began teaching school in the South Bay Area and continued to do so after her marriage in 1956. The couple moved back to West Virginia in 1957 for a few years and had three children. They relocated to Chico California in 1962 where they had their fourth child. For many years, Jane was an active member of PEO and the Omega Nu. She loved attending Broadway plays and musicals with her friends in San Francisco. She also enjoyed playing bridge with her friends and husband. Jane spent many summers at their cabin at Philbrook Lake. She created wonderful meals for her family and enjoyed singing by the campfire. Known for her southern cooking and sweet demeanor, Jane brought continuous joy to her family and friends. She tolerated her husband's constant jokes and always had a quick and witty comeback. She will be greatly missed by all. Jane was preceded in death by her sister Dolores Plunkett and her oldest son William James Hamilton. She leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Dr. James Hamilton, three children Susan Kemler, (David) of Hamden, Connecticut, Robert Hamilton of Chico California and Sara Dietzel, (Brad) of Alamo, California. Jane also has seven grandchildren who she loved dearly: Sara, Ryan, Ricky, Alex, Anna, James and Lily and one great granddaughter, Ellie. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Butte Home Health and Hospice.