Ralph Gene Hamilton

Ralph Gene Hamilton, 70, of Phelps, KY, went to sleep in the arms of the Lord December 5, 2025. He was born to Ira and Jettie (Adkins) Hamilton on December 24, 1954.

Ralph worked in the coal mines during his younger years, as well as many odd jobs in the community. He loved animals, especially his two “babies” – Riley and Kylie. He also enjoyed being outdoors and was an avid gardener. Ralph had a strong love for his family and devoted several years to taking care of his brother, James, while he was sick. He truly enjoyed keeping in touch with his siblings through daily phone calls. He never liked the finality of “goodbye”, instead he insisted we bring our phone calls to a close with the word “later”. Ralph loved to joke and cut up with those around him, and had the uncanny ability to make others laugh, even if they didn’t feel like it. His warmth and agreeable personality will be greatly missed.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded by infant brother Anon Hamilton; Gilmer Hamilton of Phelps, KY; Carl Hamilton of Stopover, KY; James Hamilton of Phelps, KY; and nephew Christopher Fields of Phelps, KY.

Ralph is survived by siblings, Denton Hamilton, Phelps, KY and Shirley Hamilton Fields, Knoxville, TN (formerly Phelps, KY). Also survived by nieces and nephews Aletha Fields, Roy Hamilton, Allen Hamilton, Tammy Dotson, Mike Hamilton, Jamie Eldridge, BJ Hamilton, and Bethany Fields.

His memory will also live on in the hearts of a host of special friends he made along the way.

The family will begin receiving friends at Jones & West Funeral Home on Friday, December 12, 2025 with visitation from 6-8 p.m.

The funeral service will be Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 1 pm, in the chapel with Pastor Odis Blankenship officiating.

Ralph will be laid to rest at Wolford Cemetery, Phelps, KY.

The Jones & West Funeral Home of Phelps, Kentucky is honored to serve the Hamilton Family.  Our guestbook may be viewed online at www.joneswestfh.com.

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