James C. Hampton

Colonel James Hampton, United States Army (Retired), passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, in Lampasas, Texas, at the age of 85. He was born on July 13, 1940, in Hollywood, California.

Colonel Hampton began his long and distinguished military career when he joined the California National Guard on October 23, 1959. Demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication, he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant by 1964. After completing Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in June 1966.

In March 1968, his unit - the 1st Squadron, 18th Armored Cavalry - was activated, and he was stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. The following year, in January 1969, he was deployed to the Republic of Vietnam, where he served courageously with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. In November 1969, he was severely wounded in combat, resulting in the loss of sight in his right eye and earning him the Purple Heart for his bravery and sacrifice.

After spending six months recovering at the Naval Hospital in San Diego, California, he was scheduled for medical discharge. However, with steadfast determination and unwavering commitment to service, he successfully petitioned the Army to remain on active duty, prevailing after multiple Physical Evaluation Board hearings. He went on to serve with the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment in Germany.

Over the course of his distinguished career, Colonel Hampton commanded at the platoon, company, and battalion levels and held numerous staff and instructor positions. He was frequently assigned to temporary duty overseas, particularly in Asia, where he served as a Foreign Area Specialist in training and operations.

His final assignment was with the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command at Fort Hood, Texas, where he served with distinction until his retirement on November 1, 1991.

Following his retirement, Colonel Hampton became a respected and beloved member of the Lometa community. He served for several years as Post Commander of American Legion Post 116 in Lometa until health issues required his resignation. He also served as head of the Safety Committee at First Baptist Church, Lometa, where his leadership and dedication were deeply valued.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Hampton of Lometa, Texas; children, Joe Hampton of Cocoa, Florida, Sally Frescia of Melbourne, Florida, Amanda Hart (husband Darren) of Plano, Texas, and Robin Sturtevant (husband Erik) of Abilene, Texas. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Zackary Sturtevant, Timothy Sturtevant, and Isabella Hart, and his brother, Jesse Steven Hampton of Oxnard, California.

Colonel Hampton will be remembered as a soldier's soldier - steadfast in duty, courageous in the face of adversity, and devoted to his country and comrades. His life exemplified honor, service, and perseverance. He was a true gentleman who could make a room laugh in an instant. His stories - some true, and some perhaps a bit enhanced - will be missed almost as much as his presence.

A celebration of life will take place at First Baptist Lometa on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 11 am.