Harold Thomas Hamm, a dedicated educator, proud veteran, and enthusiast of history and nature, passed away on July 20, 2026, in Reno, Nevada, surrounded by his children. He was 95 years old.
Born on July 3, 1931, in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, Hal was the son of Harold Edwin Hamm and Alice Bernard Hamm. He grew up in Southern California, where he developed a strong work ethic and endless curiosity that shaped his life.
After graduating from high school, Hal attended Pasadena Junior College before proudly serving four years in the United States Air Force as an Air Policeman at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska. Following his military service, he earned his bachelor’s degree in education from the University of California, Santa Barbara, beginning a teaching career that would span 38 years.
Hal began his career in elementary education before moving to junior high school, where he inspired generations of math students with his humor and high expectations. Early in his teaching career, he met the love of his life, Barbara, and together they built a life centered on family, learning, and service. They made their home in Santa Barbara, where they lived for more than 60 years. There, they raised two children they had adopted as babies, ensuring they always knew they were chosen, deeply cherished, and unconditionally loved.
Hal served as president of the Santa Barbara Teacher Association and was an award-winning leader in the California and National Education Associations, serving on their boards and advocating for excellence in education and the teaching profession.
Outside the classroom, Hal continued to serve his community as an active member of the Lions Club and an officer in the Elks Club. He treasured summers spent camping, water skiing, and bantering with family and friends. A devoted Civil War history buff, he always kept a stack of books nearby and a good vodka martini on hand.
He loved his music loud, with tastes ranging from big-band jazz and classic country to the hits of the 1980s. An avid sports fan, he was especially devoted to the San Francisco 49ers, dedicating an entire room of his home to his favorite team. A gifted landscape photographer, Hal had a remarkable ability to capture the beauty of the natural world. His photographs remain proudly displayed throughout his family’s homes.
Harold was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Hamm Marriott, and his parents, Harold Edwin Hamm and Alice Bernard Hamm. He is lovingly remembered by his son, Darrin Harold Hamm (Dawn); his daughter, Kristin Hamm Kristen; his grandchildren, Brittney Huttner, Breanne Kajans (Alex), Bailey Pollock (Jeff), Zoey Miller (Sean), Allie Scott (Jake), Ozlin Kristen, Shae Kristen, and Macy Kristen; seven cherished great-grandchildren; his brother-in-law, Pete Marriott (Peggy); his nephew, David Marriott (Karie); and his loyal dog, Roxie.
Hal’s greatest expression of love was the life he built for his family, the students he inspired, and the example he set every day. He will be remembered for his quick wit, integrity, and strength. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
