Juanita Hamilton

Juanita (Nita) Hayes Hamilton, 94, of Holladay, UT, passed away peacefully on January 20, 2014. She was born November 16, 1919, in Wichita Falls, TX to Herbert B. Hayes and Rachel Louisa Howard. She attended Hardin-Simmons University, Abilene, TX where she was earned her bachelor’s degree and teaching credential. Nita met and married Julian Olsen in 1944. They moved to Glendale, CA, where they had a son, Neil. Later divorced. Nita was a 6th grade teacher in the Glendale School District for many years and also taught at the American School, Balzan, Malta. In 1965, she met Robert (Bob) Hamilton and they were married in 1968. Nita and Bob moved from La Cañada, CA, to Sun City West, AZ, in 1990. Golf, bridge, crafts, writing, and trips to Mexico were among Nita’s passions. In the 1990s, Nita wrote a trilogy of children’s books about Dempsey, a rooster who went on various adventures. She always had a ‘thing’ about roosters. Nita was a loving wife who adored her husband. After Bob’s death in 2005, she moved to Salt Lake City to be near her son, Neil. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and siblings. Nita is survived by her son, Neil (Gloria) Olsen. She lived a full and rich life. Nita will be missed but her sharp wit, quick humor, and creativity will forever remain in our memories. The family wishes to express their gratitude to the caring and compassionate staff of Sunrise Assisted Living, Holladay, and to the wonderful people of Inspiration Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to Holladay Cottonwood Memorial Mortuary. Interment will be at Holladay Memorial Park.
A Celebration of Nita’s Life will be held at Sunrise Assisted Living, 4650 S. Highland Dr., Holladay at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 24th.