Pauline Hamilton

Surrounded by her family and loving care team at the Meadows, Pauline Kennedy Brown Hamilton, 95 passed away on October 23, 2024.

Pauline lived in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover her entire life. She was the beloved wife of Robert S. Hamilton, Sr. for 75 1/2 years. Their love for each other sets an example for many to emulate.

Her parents, Claude Brown and Alberta Kennedy Brown, and her loving brothers and son-in-law Robert Donaghue preceded her in death. She has left behind her children, Robert S. Hamilton, Jr., and his wife Willa, Barbara Hamilton Donaghue, Douglas Hamilton, and his fiancé Joanne Scotland, and Mark Hamilton.

Paulie loved music, Scottish dancing, and travel. She loved her family with a humbling warmth and tenderness. She always welcomed other people into her life and loved them like she loved her family. Her laughter filled our home, and her love was a constant source of comfort and joy.

When Pauline was about five years old, the Lawrence Eagle-Tribune newspaper featured an article and picture of her as the "Shirley Temple of Lawrence," as even then, her beauty and talent were evident.

God gave her the gift of unconditional love, and she exercised that gift often. She touched so many lives, and her death has left countless hearts saddened and heavy.

Pauline's dedication to serving her community was unwavering. For many years, she volunteered at the YMCA and a local hospital, leaving a legacy that continues to touch lives today.

As a consummate hostess and matriarch of the family, her spur-of-the-moment pool parties were a blast, and the marathon Christmas Eve gatherings are legendary. Chicken BBQ, red cake, and whoppie pies were often present at these events. It seems that Pauline single-handedly made whoopie pies a New England staple.

Saying that Pauline was an AVID sports fan is a severe understatement. It was possible to call her at 1 AM at the end of any West Coast game and be directed by her to call back as she watched the post-game commentary. Her recollection of sports stats was terrific and extensive.

She was a shining light to her grandchildren, Sean Donaghue and his wife Andrea, Kara Hamilton, Johanna Harris and her husband David, Iain Hamilton and his wife Darcy, Jonas Hamilton, and Silas Hamilton. She also leaves her great-grandchildren Cooper Donaghue, Denver Harris, Parker Harris, Raegan Hamilton, and Caleigh Hamilton and her special puppy friend Byrdie. In addition, she had many nieces and nephews, a large extended family and many friends who will miss her dearly. They have lost a fantastic influence in their lives.

Pauline's entire family is deeply grateful for the caregivers and support staff of the Meadows and Edgewood facility.  Their dedication and care ensured that Pauline's quality of life was exceptional until the end. Their role was invaluable, and words cannot fully express our appreciation.

The Compassus volunteers were present near the end. Their care for Pauline and compassion for her family were perfect in our time of need.

A memorial service is to be scheduled at a future time. Arrangements are by the Dewhirst Boles Funeral Home, 80 Broadway, Methuen. To leave an online condolence, please visit Pauline’s tribute page at www.dewhirstbolesfuneral.com.

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