Lawson W. Hamilton, Jr.

The 26 November 2007 issue of the WaterWays Journal reported the recent death of "Cappy" Lawson Hamilton. To quote the Journal:

"Lawson W. Hamilton, 84, died November 14 at the University of Vurginia Medical center of complications from lung cancer. A retired executive with Pratt Mining Company, [Mr.] Hamilton was known as a philanthropist who supported numerous causes. He was the owner of the passenger sternwheeler P. A. DENNY, before donating it to be a floating classroom on the Ohio River. Madison Coal & Supply Company named a towboat in his honor in 2001.

That's an awfully short obituary notice for a very important gentleman of the highest order. It was my extreme pleasure to have been his first Captain on the P. A. DENNY, and I was again honored last Tall Stacks when he invited me aboard the LAURA J for the cruise when he presented the DENNY to ORSANCO.

Lawson was an inspirational boss during the two years I worked for him, and he remained an inspiration in the ensuing years since. My deepest sympathy goes to his lovely wife, Momma Jean, family, and friends on the passing a most generous and gracious man.