Minister Preston Lamar Hampton, 33

DOVER - Minister Preston Lamar Hampton of Dover died Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2007, in Christiana Care-Christiana Hospital, Newark. He was 33.

Mr. Hampton was born Oct. 16, 1974, in Dover, son of Elwood and Mary Ann Hampton.

He was a graduate of Dover High School. He ran track in school. He was instrumental in organizing the first gospel choir, The Gospel Ensemble, at his high school.

Mr. Hampton became a dedicated member of the New Jerusalem Baptist Church at a young age, beginning as a young drummer. Being exceptionally musically gifted, he became the minister of music of the church, serving in that capacity until his untimely death.

During his membership at the church, he met and married Thelma Lisa Wall, also a member, in June 2003.

He was a prodigy of the Rev. C.V. Holmes. He became known throughout the community as an accomplished organist and singer, gladly lending his talents to the churches of the area, playing for weddings and funerals; as well as appearing on many gospel programs.

Mr. Hampton added to his multi-talents, by being called and licensed to the ministry of the gospel by the church. He was a prolific preacher, faithful teacher of youth Sunday school and youth minister.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Thelma Lisa Hampton; his loving parents, Elwood and Mary Ann Hampton of Dover; a cherished daughter, Dominque Hampton; a stepdaughter, Donyae Walls; two sisters, Makia Hampton and Shenetta Hampton; a loving grandmother, Mabel Rias; three grandparents by marriage, Polly Williams and James and Alice Kellum; a grandfather, Norman Sisco; a mother-in-law, Thelma Williams; a father-in-law, Leo Kellam; three uncles, Carroll Hawkins, Harry Hampton and Elmer Hampton; five aunts, Alberta Taylor, Betty Combs, Vivian Hampton, Nicolina Hampton and Ina Hawkins; two godparents, Lewis and Marsha Timmons; a beloved pastor, the Rev. C.V. "Pop Pop" Holmes; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Services will be 7 p.m. Tuesday in Union Baptist Church, 883 Lincoln St., Dover, where friends may call three hours earlier.

Burial will be in Sharon Hill Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Preston Hampton Scholarship Fund, c/o The New Jerusalem Baptist Church, 236 S. Queen St., Dover, DE 19904.

Arrangements by Bennie Smith Funeral Home, Dover.