Mike Hamilton Obituary, Death – We are deeply saddened to share the news of Mike Hamilton’s passing; he was a beloved member of the UT community and beyond. Mike, who passed away at the age of 60, was loved and respected by all who had the honor of knowing him. Mike Hamilton’s legacy as a visionary, businessman, family man, and, above all else, a person of unwavering faith, transcends his professional accomplishments. We lost an undeniably better person tonight; Mike made a positive impact on the lives of everyone around him.
Mike Hamilton, a native Tennessean who assumed the position of Athletics Director at the University of Tennessee in July 2003, was born and raised in the Volunteer State. He was dedicated to making the campus more “fan-friendly” during his time there. One of his novel approaches was to set up an email hotline called “Ask Mike,” through which his devoted fanbase could send him their questions and comments. Mike’s impact was felt throughout the renovation projects he led, most notably at Neyland Stadium, where he introduced ideas to improve the game-day experience for fans and increase revenue to fund future upgrades.
Projects were started at the aquatic center, the Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center, and Lindsey Nelson Stadium thanks to his direction. Mike Hamilton stepped down as athletic director in 2011. He persevered through hardships without wavering in his faith, showing what it means to be a man of unwavering conviction. With his new position as president of U.S. operations for Blood:Water Mission, a Nashville-based organization fighting HIV/AIDS and providing access to clean water in Africa, his departure marked the beginning of a new phase of service.
Mike Hamilton’s impact on the University of Tennessee community and beyond is immeasurable. His legacy is one of leadership, kindness, and dedication to bettering the world for future generations. The cause of his death and funeral arrangements have not yet been made public. While we wait for updates, we will always remember Mike Hamilton for the motivation, direction, and friendship he gave to everyone around him. I pray that God will grant his soul eternal rest.
