Donald E. Hammond, Iii

Donald E. Hammond III, 78, of Richmond passed away on November 25, 2024. He was born in Providence to the late Donald E. Hammond, Jr. and Verna (Campbell) Bachelder and was the stepson of the late Charles W. Bachelder. He leaves behind his beloved wife and best friend, Ronda Hammond, with whom he shared 50 years. Don is survived by two children, John Scott Hammond (Kathleen) and Kristine Hammond of Wichita, KS, one stepson, Joe Randall of Honolulu, HI, seven grandchildren, Jeffrey, Donnie, Sarah, Jacob and Johnathan Hammond, Mary Williams and Jackie Jenesse, and four great grandchildren. He is also survived by siblings Pamela Kirk (Robert) of Piercy, CA, Lori Ross (Dave) of Hope Valley, brother-in-law Shawn Bell of Voluntown, CT, and nieces Tori Noka of Wakefield and Shawna Bell of Rumford.

Don was a graduate of South Kingstown High School, Class of 1965. He enlisted in the US Air Force following graduation, serving as Airman First Class during the Vietnam era. Don was proprietor of a building maintenance company for many years and worked at a number of local businesses as well as several sororities and fraternities on the University of Rhode Island campus.

He was an avid firearms historian and collector, and a modern-day cowboy who enjoyed nothing more than watching a good (or bad) western. After retirement, Don spent time with fellow firearms enthusiasts at the Warwick Sportsman’s Association and the Great Swamp Shooting Range where shooting bull was as common as shooting a target. He enjoyed learning how to cook and experimenting with new recipes. His quick wit and great sense of humor were appreciated by all who knew him. He and his wife enjoyed Disney World vacations, music concerts, annual visits to Maine, and the company of many loving pets over the years. Don cherished time spent with family and loved making his New England clam chowder for special gatherings. He will be dearly missed, fondly remembered, and thought of often.

Interment will be private. Donations may be made in Don’s memory to the charity of your choice.