Psalm 4:8
"In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety."

Kirk McLure Hamilton, Junior was born in Gastonia on March 16, 1973, to Sharon Rawlings (McPhail) and Kirk McLure Hamilton, Senior. He came from two beloved families in Gastonia—the Hamiltons and the McPhails—and thrived in athletics and choral arts. As one of the youngest freshmen to attend Governors School, his gift of singing set him apart, and he cherished the close circle of friends he made in high school, youth group, and beyond.

Kirk attended the Brevard School for Music before transferring during his junior year to NC State, where he was an active member of the Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. Many of his lifelong friends were forged during this time. While studying Soil Science at NC State, Kirk also worked in maintenance at various golf courses.

After holding several positions in golf course management and running Luxury Fabrics in Knoxville, TN, Kirk moved to Litchfield, South Carolina, in 2002 to manage a satellite operation of Luxury Fabrics. His innovative approach to bringing fabric directly to customers led the business to flourish—until local real estate opportunities redirected his path. It was in Litchfield that he met Leigh, his former wife. They were married in 2006. Together they welcomed daughter Anne in 2009, moved to Boone, NC in 2010, and later celebrated the arrival of son Nathan in 2013.

In 2010, after overcoming his personal addiction and experiencing profound freedom in Christ, Kirk discovered his true calling: helping other men break free from addiction. He dedicated his life to guiding others toward the freedom he found, particularly through his cherished work with Hebron Colony Ministries—a ministry dear to his heart for over 14 years.

The last few years brought significant personal and professional challenges. Kirk understood that mental illness is a silent killer for many and is often misunderstood by those closest to us. If you or someone you know is facing mental health challenges, please reach out for help. There are many resources available, and taking the first step can be the hardest part. Stay connected with your loved ones and lean on close friends.

Kirk resided in Boone, NC, and is survived by his children, Anne Rawlins Hamilton (15) and Nathan McKinnon Hamilton (11); his sister, Beth Hamilton Hall, and her husband Richard; his nephew Will and niece Laney; his aunts, Patricia McMillan (husband Michael), Elizabeth (Liz) McPhail Hyde (husband Marc), and Martha McPhail; his stepsister, Crystal Gayle McPhail (husband Sebastian); and his stepbrother, Richard ("V") Vardry McPhail III (wife Wimberly).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Hebron Colony Ministries (www.hebroncolony.org).

A private gathering to celebrate Kirk's life will be held in early May, with further details to follow.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.