Diane Hamilton

Diane Hamilton, 67, of Vinton, Ohio, passed away Monday, November 2, 2026, peacefully in her home surrounded by her family following a lengthy illness. Diane was born March 10, 1959, in Oak Hill, Ohio, daughter of the late Russell and Eva (Tuttle) Thornsberry.

Diane spent her life teaching and taking care of others. She retired as a business class school teacher in 2017, following 24 years of service. She cared greatly for her many students whose lives she touched through her years at Gallia Academy High School and had many fond memories of her years there. A former 4-H Advisor, she was a member of Ohio Education Association and Ohio Retired Teachers Organization.

She had a special place in her heart for dogs, founding the Paws 4 Jesus Organization, providing dog therapy for seniors by visiting nursing homes and other senior organizations. She also had a passion for the ocean, spending time on the beach and was so thrilled to see dolphins on her last trip.

Diane was many things to many people, yet her greatest accomplishment was her family. She married Lewis “Randy” Hamilton in Beaver, Ohio, August 25, 1979, and he survives with their children: Randi Michelle Hamilton, Venice, Florida, Joseph Anthony (Sonya) Hamilton, Gallipolis, Ohio, Brittany Nichole (Michael) Bickle, Vinton, Ohio and Lewis Alexander (Dylan) Hamilton, Circleville, Ohio.

She leaves her grandchildren, Kaleb Gheen, Kylie Gheen, Mallory Hamilton, Malachi Hamilton, Makenzie Bickle and Bryce Bickle as well as a brother, three sisters and several nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Private services will be conducted at the convenience of the family who have entrusted the McCoy-Moore Funeral Home, Vinton Chapel, with arrangements.

In lieu of floral memorials, please consider a donation in Diane’s memory to the Friends of Gallia County Animals 255 Farmview Road, Bidwell, Ohio 45614