Obituary of John J. Hammond

Obituary for John James Hammond John James Hammond, lovingly known as "John J" to his grandchildren, passed away on May 5, 2026, at age 81, at Guthrie Cortland Medical Center in Cortland, NY, surrounded by his loving family. John was born June 28, 1944, in DeRuyter, New York, to Henry and Ethel (Stull) Hammond. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, completing two tours of duty with the 411 th Transportation Detachment Unit, and was honorably discharged. In later years, he retired from Pall Trinity, where he worked for many years as Maintenance Team Lead. Above all, John was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He and his wife—and best friend—Janice loved taking road trips, happy to go wherever the road led. He also treasured family time, a good cup of coffee, and quilting—often sharing the work with loved ones and adding his own special touches to the many quilts and "Bunk-Mades" that they made together. To his grandchildren, "John J" was the steady presence in the room—often watching from a distance with a look in his eye that said everything—without saying a thing. When they came to visit, his happiness was unmistakable. He often marveled at how fast everyone was growing up. Beneath his tough exterior was a truly soft heart; he loved deeply, and even when he didn't always say it out loud, his love was felt. John was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Ethel (Stull) Hammond; his brothers, Richard, Fred, and Lynn Hammond; and his son, Daniel "Bone" Hammond. He is survived by his loving wife, Janice; his sons, Ken (Katie) Morgan, Jesse Morgan, John Hammond, and Brian Hammond; his daughters, Beth O'Brien, Patricia Lee, Tammy (Brian) Weegan, and Amy Strauf; 17 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; his sisters, Linda Gregory and Debra (Duane) Wassum; and several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life is being planned. The family will share details as soon as they are available. Wright-Beard Funeral Home, Inc. is assisting the family with arrangements To offer condolences online, please visit www.wright-beard.com.