LeRoy Hammond

LeRoy Hammond

LeRoy Hammond

1938-2026

LeRoy Hammond, Crossville, Tennessee, was born December 12, 1938, to Roy and LaVerla (Herndon) Hammond. He passed away July 30, 2026. He grew up in Parnell, graduated from Northeast Nodaway High School in 1956 and Northwest Missouri State College in 1961.

LeRoy spent 32 years with the Stronghurst, Illinois School District, where he served as a teacher, coach and, eventually, principal. During his years as a basketball coach, he guided several teams to winning seasons and became well known for his ability to work with young athletes and help them develop their talents.

Before leaving Missouri, LeRoy married Virgie Nelson. They had two children, Kenton and Kimberly.

After retiring from the Stronghurst School District, LeRoy’s time away from coaching didn’t last long. He was recruited by I.C.S. Elementary to coach the boys basketball team. His teams continued his tradition of success, earning recognition at both the local and state levels.

In 1999, LeRoy married Janet (Ross). In 2005, LeRoy and Janet moved to Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, where they enjoyed the area’s beauty and opportunities for golf.

LeRoy is survived by his wife, Janet; son, Kenton of Moline, Illinois; Kimberly Allen (Randy) of Cook, Minnesota; Karen Bosze (Dennis) of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee; and Christine Raes of Monmouth, Illinois.

He is also survived by several grandchildren, including Austin Hammond, Sydney Marn, Anna (Simon) Raes, Clinton Rutledge, Shelby Joyslin (Dan) and Brady Allen (Tara); his cousins, Connie Hawk, Patsy Orey and Kathy Brand.

He was preceded by his parents and aunt, Helen (Herndon) Fare.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 26 in Monmouth, Illinois.