Joe Darrell Hammond

Joe Darrell Hammond passed peacefully on October 30, 2025, in Louisville, KY, at the age of 79. A beloved father, grandfather, and devoted educator, Joe was a resident of Louisville, KY, formerly of Inez, KY.

Joe was born on September 7, 1946, to Mont and Mable Hammond at Calf Creek, KY. After growing up in Eastern Kentucky, Joe dedicated a part of his early life to service in the United States Air Force, where he proudly achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He served from November, 1964, until November, 1970. He spent some of that time in Okinawa, Japan where his Uncle Ralph was serving in the Army, and some of the time with his wife, Annie, on Guam, where his daughter was born.

Following his military service, Joe pursued his lifelong passion for education. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a degree in Education. He began his teaching career in the Columbus City School system, where he taught for several years. He later returned to his roots in Inez, KY, where he ran multiple local businesses and was Mayor of Inez. He soon returned to the classroom, embracing his calling as an educator, and later as a Principal.

Joe was a member of the Marion Hale Masonic Lodge in Inez, Kentucky, since 1980. He was the Lodge’s Master Mason as well.

Outside of his work, Joe was known for his calm demeanor and quiet passions. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed the serenity of the course. His family will fondly remember his tradition of taking Sunday naps while listening to golf on the television—a perfect pairing of his favorite pastimes.

Joe is survived by his loving wife Anna Jean, his children, Amanda Hammond Petrie (Curtis) and Joe Darrell Hammond, II (Katherine Tapp); and his grandchildren, Evan Tanner Petrie, Isabella Sydney Grace Petrie and Lauren Olivia Claire Petrie and his sister, Pauletta Barrett. He is predeceased by his parents, Mont and Mable Hammond and by siblings, Jack Hammond, Clyde Hammond, Billy Ray Hammond, Anita Haney, Ronnie Hammond, Charles Hammond, and Minnie Sue Bailey.

At the request of the family, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dementia Society of America.

Friends may visit at Crum Funeral Home at noon on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, with funeral to follow at 2 PM. Burial will follow in the Riverview Memorial Gardens in Louisa, KY. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home of Inez, KY.

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