LeRoy Eldon Hammond, 87, passed away on July 30, 2026.
LeRoy was born December 12, 1938, to Roy and LaVerla (Herndon) Hammond. He grew up in Parnell and Maryville, Missouri, before moving to Illinois following his graduation from college to begin a career in education.
LeRoy spent 32 years with the Stronghurst School District, where he served as a teacher, coach and, eventually, principal. During his years as a basketball coach, he guided several teams to winning seasons and became well known for his ability to work with young athletes and help them develop their talents.
Before leaving Missouri, LeRoy married Virgie Nelson. They had two children, Kenton and Kimberly.
After retiring from the Stronghurst School District, LeRoy’s time away from coaching didn’t last long. He was recruited by I.C.S. Elementary to coach the boys basketball team. His teams continued his tradition of success, earning recognition at both the local and state levels.
In 1999, LeRoy married Janet (Ross). Together, they enjoyed traveling throughout the United States. In 2023, they traveled to Alaska, allowing LeRoy to achieve a longtime goal of visiting all 50 states.
In 2005, LeRoy and Janet moved to Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, where they enjoyed the area’s beauty and opportunities for golf.
LeRoy became active with the Cumberland County Elks Lodge and continued encouraging young athletes. Several elementary students from Cumberland County whom he worked with went on to earn national honors in the Elks Hoop Shoot competition.
LeRoy is survived by his wife, Janet; son, Kenton of Moline; Kimberly Allen (Randy) of Cook, Minnesota; Karen Bosze (Dennis) of Fairfield Glade, Tennessee; and Christine Raes of Monmouth.
He is also survived by several grandchildren, including Austin Hammond, Sydney Marn, Anna (Simon) Raes, Clinton Rutledge, Shelby Joyslin (Dan) and Brady Allen (Tara).
Cremation has been accorded.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Monmouth American Legion.
Those wishing to honor LeRoy’s memory may make a donation to the American Cancer Society.
***Courtesy of the Hancock-Henderson Quill, INC.***
