1949-2025
Ralph Joseph “Joe” Hammond, 76, of rural Macomb passed away at 9:05 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2025 at the Elms Nursing Home in Macomb.
He was born on May 17, 1949 in Macomb to Samuel W. and Helen M. Bolack Hammond. He married Norrita Woolridge on August 21, 1971. She survives.
Also surviving are his children, Alisa Marie (Kyle Whiteside) Hammond of Roseville, Bradley Joseph (Kristine Wright) Hammond of Arlington Heights, Ross Curtis (Kate) Hammond of Sheboygan, Wisconsin and Sara Ann (Jane Garvin) Hammond of Austin, Texas; five grandchildren, Jade Laverdiere, Addison Hammond, Logan Hammond, Olivia Hammond and Amelia Hammond and one brother, James Willard Hammond of Suprise, Arizona.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Carole Marie Potter.
Joe taught Vocational Ag at five different schools as well as Ag Science. He started McDonough County Young Farmers while teaching at VIT High School. He was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of Macomb.
Farming ran deep in his veins. He farmed in rural Adair for 21 years. He loved his herd of Registered Shorthorn Cattle and teaching his children to love and care for the cattle. His children showed cattle at many county fairs in West Central Illinois, the Illinois State Fair and North American International Livestock Exhibition in Louisville, Kentucky.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 21, 2025 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Macomb with Pastor Youngshim Pitcher officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the church.
Memorials may be made to the Macomb School District Vocational Ag Department, Trinity Lutheran Church or the charity of the donor’s choice.
Clugston-Tibbitts Funeral Home in Macomb is in charge of arrangements.
You may leave condolences and sign the guest book online at clugston-tibbitts.com.