Madeline (Blackmore) Hamilton passed away peacefully on February 10th, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on April 23rd, 1940, Madeline was one of eleven children—a childhood that fostered in her resilience, hard work, and a devotion to her family.

Madeline is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, John Francis Hamilton, with whom she shared a life grounded in love, faith, and unwavering partnership. She leaves behind her daughter Sheila (Mark) Kitchen and her sons John (Susan) and David (Sara). She was a proud and devoted grandmother to Andrew and Meredith Kitchen, and Sam and Grace Hamilton, each a treasured source of joy in her life.

She is also survived by her brothers Ed Blackmore (Betty) of Gander and Joe Blackmore (Joan) of Grand Falls–Windsor; and by her sisters Barbara da Silva of Halifax, Nova Scotia; Stella Blackmore; Reedie (Marie) Blackmore; and Margaret (Christian) Jeanvoine of Montreal.

Predeceased by parents Phillip and Bridgette (Hanlon) Blackmore, brothers Dr.. Tom Blackmore, Ron Blackmore, Bill Blackmore and sister Lena Eastman.

A woman of deep faith, service, and dedication, Madeline enriched her parish and community through decades of heartfelt commitment. A gifted musician, she served as organist at the Immaculate Cathedral Church for more than 40 years, offering her musical gifts to countless liturgies, weddings, and funerals. As a young woman she completed all her piano examinations through the Trinity College of Music, excelling in every one of them—an achievement that reflected her talent, perseverance, and love of music. Madeline was a teacher in the local primary schools and a long-standing piano teacher for thirty-five years. She was able to share her musical knowledge with weekly lessons and enter young participate in the Kiwanis Music Festivals.

Madeline was also a respected leader within her parish. She served as President of the Parish Council, was a founding member and the first President of the Catholic Women's League (C.W.L.), and was a long-standing member of St. Gerard's Guild. She also helped with the Parish Baptism course, welcoming families to the church. Beyond the parish, she served as secretary of the 50+ Club (Seniors) for seven years, and was an associate member of the Presentation Sisters, commitments that highlighted her compassion, generosity, and sense of community.

After raising her family, Madeline continued her education with enthusiasm and purpose. She studied at the Atlantic School of Theology and later spent three summers studying Religion at St. Paul's University in Ottawa—a testament to her intellectual curiosity and her desire to deepen her understanding of faith.

In her final years, Madeline resided at the Long-Term Care Home in Grand Falls–Windsor, where she received exceptional, compassionate care from the staff, for which the family remains deeply grateful. Her love of music remained with her until the end—she continued to play the keyboard, and she found joy in the many musical visitors who performed for the residents. Music was her lifelong companion, sustaining her spirit even in her final chapter.

Known for her gentle nature, her quiet strength, and her unwavering kindness, Madeline touched the lives of all who knew her. Her legacy is one of love, faith, music, and a life lived with grace, purpose, and devotion. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

The public visitation will take place Wednesday, February 18, 2026 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM at Sunset Memorial Funeral Home, 10 Bayley Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception with Father Joseph Uy officiating.

The interment will take place at the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Union Street, Grand Falls-Windsor, NL.