Early Life and Career
Brett Kelly Hamilton was born in Atlanta and was a graduate of Grady High School in Atlanta and Centre College in Danville, KY, where he majored in mathematics and physics. He worked as an actuary and financial analyst in the healthcare industry in Texas, Kentucky, and Atlanta. Throughout his life, Brett maintained an open, generous heart, a patient and gentle spirit, and a witty sense of humor. He treasured his time with his children, a driving force in his life (according to Legacy.com).
Personal Life
Brett loved whipping up a mean Mac n’ Cheese with his daughter Ansley and building elaborate Lego constructions with his son Rafe. He was an indomitable board game master and quiet intellect who taught his children the importance of fair play and relished helping them with their science projects and math assignments. He played classical guitar, was an enthusiastic cook, and volunteered his time and efforts to those less fortunate. He helped construct a clinic in Ghana, studied Spanish in Guatemala, volunteered to assist Alzheimer’s patients, and tutored at-risk children in Lexington, KY, as well as athletes at the University of Kentucky (according to Legacy.com).
Health Challenges and Cause of Death
Brett endured multiple surgeries and therapies in pursuit of his health after being diagnosed with a rare, nonmalignant brain tumor in 2000. Despite the wearying regimens and setbacks, he maintained his work schedule until no longer able. He kept a quiet inner strength, a loving kindness, and faithful optimism, rallying time and time again against the odds. It is believed he died of a massive seizure from which he could not be revived (according to Legacy.com).
Legacy
A devoted and loving father, Brett is survived by his children Ansley, 14 and Rafe, 11, his beloved soul mate Isabel Wilkerson, his sister, Lisa, an artist in Brooklyn, NY, and his parents, John and Nancy. His life and legacy continue to inspire many, and his story serves as a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity (according to Legacy.com).
