Joe Darrell Hammond
1946—2025
Joe Darrell Hammond, 79, of Louisville, formerly of Inez, passed peacefully Oct. 30, 2025, in Louisville.
He was a beloved father, grandfather and devoted educator.
Born Sept. 7, 1946, on Calf Creek in Martin County, he was the son of the late Mont and Mable Hammond.
After growing up in Eastern Kentucky, Joe dedicated a part of his early life to service in the United States Air Force, where he proudly achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He served from November 1964 until November 1970. He spent some of that time in Okinawa, Japan, where his Uncle Ralph was serving in the Army, and some of the time with his wife, Annie, on Guam, where his daughter was born.
Following his military service, Joe pursued his lifelong passion for education. He graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a degree in education. He began his teaching career in the Columbus City School system, where he taught for several years. Later, he returned to his roots in Inez, where he ran several local businesses and served as Mayor of Inez. He soon returned to the classroom, embracing his calling as an educator and later as a principal.
Joe was a member of the Marion Hale Masonic Lodge in Inez since 1980. He was the Lodge’s Master Mason as well.
Outside of his work, Joe was known for his calm demeanor and quiet passions. He was an avid golfer who enjoyed the serenity of the course. His family will fondly remember his tradition of taking Sunday naps while listening to golf on the television—a perfect pairing of his favorite pastimes.
Joe is survived by his loving wife Anna Jean; his children, Amanda Hammond Petrie (Curtis) and Joe Darrell Hammond II (Katherine Tapp); his grandchildren, Evan Tanner Petrie, Isabella Sydney Grace Petrie and Lauren Olivia Claire Petrie; and his sister, Pauletta Barrett.
In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by siblings Jack Hammond, Clyde Hammond, Billy Ray Hammond, Anita Haney, Ronnie Hammond, Charles Hammond and Minnie Sue Bailey.
At the family’s request, donations can be made in lieu of flowers to the Dementia Society of America.
Friends may visit at Crum Funeral Home in Inez at noon Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, with the funeral to follow at 2 p.m. Burial will follow in the Riverview Memorial Gardens in Louisa. Arrangements are under the direction of Crum Funeral Home.