Dennis Keith Hamby

In Loving Memory of Dennis K. Hamby

Dennis K. Hamby was more than a brother—he was a best friend, a constant companion, and someone with a good and giving heart. He never tried to be the center of attention, but he was always willing to share what he had. His home was never empty, filled with friends, laughter, and a sense of welcome.

He took care of his mom and stepdad during their later years of retirement. After our stepdad, Dick, passed, Dennis stepped into the role of man of the house and helped our mother with all of the manly chores. He and our mother were very close, and this only drew them closer.

Dennis was born October 23, 1954, at 12:20 p.m. in Fresno, California, to Easter McCracken and Dennis Whitaker. At age 12, he proudly took the last name of Hamby, in honor of his stepfather, Robert (Bob) Hamby, whom he deeply respected and who preceded him in death.

Life moved us from place to place growing up, and it wasn’t always easy. In unfamiliar towns and tough times, we siblings did our best to become each other’s anchors. Dennis often kept to himself, but when asked for help, he quietly showed up—with a steady hand and a heart that meant well.

Our brother’s favorite pastime was working on cars. He even had his own shop at one time and was very proud of the work people brought to him. He did this until his hands developed a severe form of debilitating arthritis that forced him to quit—something that was hard for him to accept, as he loved that work so much.

He held a few jobs in life, another of which he was very proud of, called “Flangeco.” He developed a keen sense of the business, and the two brothers who owned it took notice of his tremendous knowledge, eventually asking him to step up and help manage the crew. He did this until one of the brothers passed and the business had to be sold.

I remember my brother as being one of the most intelligent students in the schools we attended. I happened to run across one of his report cards that read: “Dennis is very pleasant to have in my class and does good work.”

He lived with an open heart and welcomed everyone with sincerity. Whether you were family by blood or by bond, Dennis made you feel like you belonged.

Dennis passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 70, due to several health complications, with cardiopulmonary arrest being the final cause.

He was preceded in death by two sisters, Sandy Taylor and Kathy Potter, and by a brother, Christopher (Chris) Hamby.

He is deeply loved and missed by his family and friends—both near and far—who carry forward the warmth, loyalty, and generosity he gave so freely.

Dennis leaves behind his sister, Sheila McCracken, and two brothers, Jason Hamby and Justin Hamby.