Robert Lee Hamlett

Robert Hamlett, 84, of Nashville, Davidson County was born on a Tuesday, March 3, 1931 and passed away on Monday, February 1, 2016 at St. Thomas Hospital, Midtown. He was the only son of Mamie Wells and James Hamlett who preceded him in death as well as one daughter, Ramona Hamlett Tyson; son, Robert Hamlett, Jr.; two brothers, William Eugene Hamlett, and James A. Hamlett.

Robert was a passionate man who enjoyed his life and brought pleasure to those lucky enough to be part of his inner circle. He was affectionately called “Slaughter” by some—not sure who dubbed him with that—and he had nicknames for just about all of us. His family and his singing career were his greatest pleasures and he had many memories to share about both.

In his spare time, he enjoyed his puzzles and when he was playing online, we knew not to disturb his internet connection. An avid sports fan, he could be very vocal when discussing his teams—as he was about any topic in which he had an interest.

He worked for the State of Tennessee at the main penitentiary for many years. He retired from U.S. Tobacco as a supervisor after 22 years of service to pursue his career with the Fairfield Four. He travelled all over the country visiting Asia, Japan, Turkey, Spain and London. He was blessed to sing at Carnegie Hall and also sung before Congress. Robert received accolades from two Tennessee Governors for his contribution to the music industry.

With pleasant memories to cherish, he leaves to mourn his wife, Alice Hamlett; ten children, District Elder, Pastor Michael (Tobi) Cooper, Sr.; Sandra Epps, Jackie Myers, Beverly (Herbert) Galbreath, Michael (Carla) Hamlett, Broderick (Sarah) Hamlett, Gerald (Valerie) Hamlett, Lywanis Hamlett, Geoffrey Hamlett, and Trevicca (Caddius) Moore. Robert was also blessed with a host of grandchildren including a very devoted grandson, Michael White, Jr; numerous great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren as you can imagine. One cousin, Mildred (Morris) French and nephew, Jimmy (Faye) Wells and a host of other extended family. We include the Fairfield Four in this section because they are extended family. Current members are Joseph Thompson, Levert Allison, Bobby Sherrell, and Larrice Byrd, Sr.

His sudden passing has created a void in the family and we know it will take time and patience to heal. We take some pleasure in knowing that he did not suffer the indignities of a long and extended health issue; he was active and only suffered the illnesses bought on by being on this earth for 84 years.