Frances Dew Hamilton, former executive director of the Alabama Baptist Historical Commission (ABHC) and the first female Baptist entity head in the state, died July 25. She was 79.
Hamilton received her education from Judson College in Marion and the University of Georgia in Athens.
A lifelong historian, she taught history at Samford University in Birmingham for 34 years before becoming the first woman to head an Alabama Baptist State Convention entity in 1994. She led ABHC for 12 years, until 2006.
She also was a trustee for Judson and co-author of “Daughters of the Dream,” a history of her alma mater written with Elizabeth Wells. Hamilton also wrote and contributed to numerous historical articles and papers. She was the pianist for First Baptist Church, Trussville, for more than 25 years.
Lonette Berg, current ABHC executive director, knew Hamilton as more than simply her predecessor. Lovingly called “boss” by Berg, Hamilton was a good friend and mentor who taught Berg how to lead with passion and grace.
Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, remembers Hamilton as “an effective and faithful leader” of ABHC thanks to her love of history and love for Alabama Baptists.
“During her tenure at the commission, I learned to admire her as a leader of others and a servant of the Lord,” Lance said. “She made herself accessible to our churches and to church leaders throughout her ministry at the commission and for that I am extremely grateful.”
Hamilton was preceded in death by her husband, Royer. She is survived by one son and three grandchildren.
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