David Allen Hammond
David Allen Hammond, 81, of Washington, passed away in his memory care unit, with his hospice nurse and aides by his side. His daughter and son-in-law were able to Facetime as he went with the Lord. He died of COVID-19.
He was born June 30, 1939, in Latrobe.
He was raised in Pleasant Unity and moved to Mt. Pleasant in 1953, where he met the love of his life, Jackie, at the age of 14.
He played football at Ramsey High as a halfback and graduated in 1957. He then attended California University of PA to study education on a football scholarship.
In November, 1961, he married Jacqueline Ann Splendore, and the two made their home in Washington, where they had four children.
David was a member of Immaculate Conception Church.
He began his student teaching at 7th Ward. He worked as a teacher for 36 years, also teaching at 6th Ward and eventually Washington Elementary Educational Park.
Mr. Hammond loved kids of all ages, but especially his 7th and 8th grade students. He spent many summers on the 8th Ward playground as a summer advisor. While teaching social studies, he began his love of photography and began to teach his students in the media center.
For many years Dave enjoyed directing the Washington D.C. trips for the students and was instrumental in expanding the trips for one to three days. He was also a chaperone for the ski club for many years.
His unconditional love for children was not only for his students but all kids outside the school too, most importantly his own children.
He was game for any and all activities including water skiing, snow skiing, sled riding, baseball, football, soccer, wrestling, building puzzles and much more. They even skied down the front yard on occasion.
His children led him into the soccer program and it became a passion for the whole family. He helped start the Washington Youth Soccer Association many years ago. He also began Trinity Girls Soccer with Jerry Ault in 1987. He was his children’s #1 fan while they played for Trinity High School for almost a decade in the ’80s. He also coached soccer at Wash High, with his son Todd. Mr. Hammond will be remembered by many players standing on the sidelines, with his camera, cheering them on.
Dave loved traveling all over the United States and outside the country with his wife and many friends. He attended countless sporting events with his precious son, David, his sidekick in most social outings.
He was president for two years for the Washington Jaycees, played adult softball for them, and helped with their booth at the Washington County Fair until the age of 35. He then became a member of the Washington Lions Club, where he volunteered at the farmer’s market and the mall. He was their president twice.
Mr. Hammond enjoyed helping and community service.
He was also employed by the Washington County District Attorney’s office for 10 years as an advocate for the elderly in the Elder Abuse Program.
He retired for the second time at age 75. At this time he began his battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Mr. Hammond’s love for his family was immeasurable. His grandchildren held a special place in his heart and he hugged them every chance he could. He was a supportive, caring best friend to his wife, Jackie, the apple of his eye.
Dave will be remembered by his laugh, fun loving personality and especially that Hammond smile. He will be deeply missed.
Dave is survived by his wife, Jackie; two sons, David of Washington and Bryan (Beth) of Rochester, N.Y.; a daughter, Alicia (Mark, a devoted and loyal caregiver) Molinaro of Washington; a daughter-in-law, Nadine Hammond; and five grandchildren, Dillon and McKenna Hammond of Prosperity, Allysa and Whitney Hammond of Rochester, N.Y. and Arica Rae Thornton of Canonsburg.
He is preceeded in death by his parents, Charles “Woody” and Gladys Hammond; a sister, MaryAlice Kaczmarek; his beloved son, Todd Charles Hammond; and family friend, Donna Ault.
All services are private and entrusted to Piatt and Barnhill Funeral Directors, Inc., Charles R. Piatt, owner/supervisor, Andrew C. Piatt, director. The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Olivia Scott Foundation, c/o Marc Scott, 225 Kelley Road, Washington, PA 15301. Condolences may be expressed at www.piattandbarnhillfh.com.