Mr Thomas Lee Hammonds

Thomas Lee Hammonds was born on June 16, 1958, in St. Louis, Missouri, as the third child in the union between Pauline and Nathaniel Hammonds. He was the only son born to their union and was beloved by his parents. He dedicated his life to Christ at an early age. Throughout his life, Thomas remained deeply connected to his roots in St. Louis, where he was born and raised.

Thomas continued his lifelong journey of education after graduating from Beaumont High School in 1976. He attended Washington University and the University of Missouri - St. Louis to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. Completed a Bachelor of Science in information technology in 2018 and a Master of Science in information technology with an emphasis on cybersecurity in 2019, both from Lindenwood University.

Thomas worked for Ameren for over 20 years. After taking an early retirement, he continued his work as an electric journeyman lineman for various utility contractors until 2016. He then transitioned into another passion for information technology. He worked for the Veterans Administration in various capacities until he was almost complete with his Bachelors, at which time he did internships with Lindenwood University IT HelpDesk and began his full-time employment with VA IT at Jefferson Barracks Medical Center. He retired from VA in 2023. But his love of educating others did not stop. He worked with CyberUp in educating local middle schoolers and Scout troops on cybersecurity.

Thomas desired to serve in the Air Force, but unfortunately, his eyesight prevented this, so he enlisted with the Army Reserves and then transitioned to the Navy Reserves - Seabees. He served his country for more than 30 years and ended his service as a Navy Corpsman in 2010. He continued his purpose to serve others by joining the Buffalo Soldiers and Troopers Motorcycle Club in 2008. He served as a strong advocate for justice and service through the organization. Through this organization, he was a member of several local chapters – St. Louis, MO, Clarksville, TN, Denver, CO, and finally Ft. Leavenworth, KS. In his time with the Buffalo Soldiers, he ensured that others were aware of the rich history of the 9th and 10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers. Even after he retired from the club, he continued to be an integral part of the Ft. Leavenworth chapter.

His service to others extended not only to his church, clubs, and organizations, he was always one phone call away for family. No matter what the need was he found a way to be there.

On the evening of July 12, 2025, Thomas transitioned after health complications. He was surrounded by most of his immediate family. Thomas was preceded in death by both his parents, Pauline and Nathaniel Hammonds.

He is lovingly remembered by his partner, La June Grayson, who stood by his side with unwavering support and care. Thomas’s legacy continues through his five daughters: A'Biel Hammonds (Grace duMaine), Angel Hammonds, Tanieeka Hammonds, Alana Hammonds, and Amari Hammonds. His family circle extended further with his cherished bonus children: Antoinette Encarnacion (Christerpher), Derrick Stanton, Raven Stanton, and Stefanni Stanton. Thomas found immense joy in being a grandfather. He leaves behind grandchildren Nicholas Hammonds, Christian Willis, Rhyan Graham, and Drake Graham. His love also embraced his bonus grandchildren: Aiden Encarnacion, Mikel Jacobs, Eve Stanton, Karon Jacobs, Alexander Encarnacion, Mia Stanton, Isabella Walker, Kaiden Stanton, Addison Statz, and Kaylani Stanton.

He shared a close bond with his sisters Nadine Poindexter (Victor) and Paula Hammonds. His presence will be missed by nieces Jennifer Poindexter, Jessica Weathersby (Damien), Jeanette Turner (Gavin); great-niece Nyla Weathersby, and great-nephews Noah Weathersby, Donovan Weathersby, and Damien Weathersby.

Thomas’s life touched many beyond his immediate family. He leaves behind a host of extended family members and friends who will remember him with affection and respect.

May the memory of Thomas Lee Hammonds bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting tribute to a life well-lived.