Vance T. Hamilton
Vance Hamilton of Holt, Michigan passed away August 28, 2025, at the age of 93. Born June 13, 1932, to Maynard and Grace Hamilton.
Vance graduated from Charlotte High School. Following his studies at Alma University and Penn State University, Vance taught science and math at Grand Ledge High School (1954-59), was a traveling science teacher for the National Science Foundation (1959-60) and finished his teaching career at East Lansing High School (1960-93). Devoted to football, he coached Freshman and Junior Varsity football in East Lansing for 33 years. Vance retired from teaching and coaching in 1993 after 39 years. The state of Michigan, via the House of Representatives and Senate recognized Vance as an outstanding teacher and coach upon his retirement. Following the 1984/85 football season, Vance was inducted into the Michigan High School Coaches Association’s Hall of Fame.
Vance was a lifetime member of the Michigan Education Association, National Science Teachers Association, and an active member of Holt United Methodist Church where he participated in many small group studies and served on several committees. A devoted father, Vance enjoyed fishing, woodworking, gardening and, of course, football.
Vance was preceded in death by his parents Maynard Hamilton and Grace (H. Frank) Idle, his devoted wife of 59 years Mary Alice (Peake), and brother Max Hamilton. He is survived by children Vanetta (Stephen) Conn, Maynard (Eileen) Hamilton, Carol (Rick) Cook, and Leon (Liz) Hamilton; grandchildren James Conn, Troy (Jennifer) Hamilton, Traci (Jared) Gates, Charles Hamilton, Ashley (Josh) Lowe, and Chelsey Hamilton; and great-grandchildren Ty and Jaxson Hamilton; J. Hiram, Josie, and Olynn Gates; Vance, Hunter, and Wyatt Lowe; and Charles Hamilton, Jr.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Holt United Methodist Church, 2321 Aurelius Road, Holt. The family will receive relatives and friends from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
Memorial contributions for Vance can be made to Holt United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are by the Estes-Leadley Holt/Delhi Chapel
9 Messages to “Vance T. Hamilton”
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Barbara Flory
September 3, 2025 at 2:12 pmSo sorry to hear of your loss. He was an outstanding man. Our world lost a good human being!
Maynard Hamilton
September 4, 2025 at 8:36 pmThank you.
David Underwood
September 4, 2025 at 12:35 pmCoach Hamilton made an incredible impact on so many lives. He taught lessons that went far beyond football—about perseverance, character, and believing in yourself. His influence will live on through every student and player he guided. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.
Maynard Hamilton
September 4, 2025 at 8:36 pmThank you.
Tony Yung
September 4, 2025 at 3:44 pmI had the honor of Coach Hamilton being my football position coach and my chemistry teacher at ELHS. What I remember the most was the time he afforded me to help nurture me as a person and as an athlete. Football is such an amazing platform to help young men grow, learn accountability and foster a team work ethic. Coach Hamilton used that platform to influence so many student athletes. As a chemistry teacher, I remember vividly learning what a “mole” was and it’s stuck to me this day. He took the time to not just make sure you memorized the topic, but you truly understood. I still think about some of the life lessons he taught me to this day – nearly 35 years later. RIP Coach.
Maynard Hamilton
September 5, 2025 at 2:53 pmThank you.
T. Simon
September 5, 2025 at 12:05 amMr. Vance was a good teacher, and never failed to twist my tail. Rest in peace.
Maynard Hamilton
September 5, 2025 at 2:54 pmThank you.
Tim Foster
October 9, 2025 at 7:37 amMy memories of coach are too many to list. All of them positive. He was my football coach and chemistry teacher at ELHS (class of 1981). Like Coach Smith, Coach Piotter, Coach Bamford, Coach Tucker, he had a profound impact on how I turned out – all for the better. RIP, Coach. My condolences to your family. I hope in heaven they hear that one-in-a-million laugh of yours!