James E. Hammond

James E. “Jim” Hammond, age 82, Walton, passed away at 4:12 a.m. Friday, May 2, 2025, in his residence.

Born November 20, 1942, in LaPorte, Indiana, he was the son of Leslie Hammond and Margaret Wendling Hammond.

Jim was married on July 17, 1966, to Susan J. Saunders Hammond, who preceded him in death November 15, 2023.

He was a graduate of Tipton Township High School. Jim then served in the United States Army. He was a member of the Walton American Legion Post 418, and the Forty et Eight. 

Jim had been employed at the Logansport State Hospital, Continental Steel, ABC Metals and Area Five Agency on Aging.

Surviving are his four children, Stephanie Humerickhouse, Michelle (Steve) Williams, Phillip (Heather) Hammond, and Jason Hammond (Heather Bateman); and a brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Nikki Hammond.

Also surviving are grandchildren, Jessica (Kerri) Humerickhouse-Cox, A. J. (Cecelia) Humerickhouse, Alexa (Braden) Hobbs, Abrah (Riley) White, Austin (Kassi) Clem, Nathan LoCoco (Alexa Early), Matt (Caycie) Williams, Molly (Jake) Finnegan, Ali (Riley) King, Dakota Hammond, Brady Hammond, Luke Hammond, Lillian Hammond; fourteen great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his wife's parents, Phillip and Grace Saunders; His sister and brother-in-law, Judy and Earl Cain; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Steve and Bonnie Saunders; son-in-law, Kevin LoCoco; several aunts and uncles.

Jim was a man of many activities and interests. He was a member of the Walton Town Board, Walton Masonic Lodge, Walton Volunteer Fire Department, and had been a crossing guard for the Southeastern School Corporation. He coached Tipwa Little League in Walton, and Post 418 baseball.

He loved sports, including the Chicago Cubs, Purdue, and especially, Lewis Cass. He enjoyed Rabbit, Deer, and Coon Hunting, planting a garden, and canning. Going to Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee was a favorite trip.

Most of all, he loved his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. They were his life.

His presence could set a tone to all environments he was in. Some might say that he was intimidating, but he really was a “big ole teddy bear”. He was a staple of the Walton Community.

Visitation will be from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Kroeger-Crain Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, following visitation, with Bill Collins and David Noel officiating.

The visitation and celebration of life are to be a casual celebration so please dress comfortably in Cubs, Purdue, Lewis Cass, or any sports attire.

The family wishes to express gratitude to Compassus Hospice, especially Megan and Shyanna, for their comfort and care.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Lewis Cass Athletic Fund or Walton Volunteer Fire Department.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of James E. Hammond, please visit our floral store.