It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Retired Boynton Beach Police Chief William “Bill” Hamilton.
Chief Hamilton was hired by the Boynton Beach Police Department in Feb. 1959. He became Chief of Police in Jan. 1982 and served in that capacity until his retirement in Oct. 1984.
Chief Hamilton was surrounded by his family and friends when he peacefully passed on Feb. 3. His son, Chris, provided us with some beautiful insight into his life. Please take some time to read about a man who meant a great deal to this agency.
“They truly broke the mold when Dad arrived on earth in the early 1930’s. Dad served our Country in the Army in the 1950’s, he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Master’s degree from Pepperdine University, he also graduated from the FBI Academy in the 1970’s, and gave 25 years of loyalty and pride to the Boynton Beach Police Department and retired as their Police Chief…Dad’s true wishes were to ride off into the sunset, singing Willie Nelson in his t-shirt and blue jeans. One of Dad’s favorite #willienelson songs was Angel Flying too Close to the Ground. I played hours of Willie Nelson tunes at Dad’s bedside during his final few days and I will always cherish these memories. Please do not be sad for our family because we are celebrating Dad’s full-life.. Please just remember and honor Dad by carrying on his great stories and sense of humor. Here are the so fitting lyrics of Willie Nelson’s Angel Flying too Close to the Ground~ “I knew someday that you would fly away. For love’s the greatest healer to be found. So leave me if you need to, I will still remember. Angel flying too close to the ground. Fly on, fly on past the speed of sound…”
Rest in Peace, Chief Hamilton. Thank you for your dedication. #bbpdpride
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