Harriet Gaston

Harriet Ann Hamilton Gaston, of Dayton, died January 12, 2012. Born May 26, 1947 to William A. and Lucille Hopkins Hamilton, and living in Dayton most of her life, Harriet was in The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls and attended the Grand Assembly. She graduated from Fairview High School and later, Sinclair Community College as a paralegal. She last worked at Goodwill Easter Seals.

Harriet was an avid birdwatcher and naturalist, and supported these activities through her volunteerism and financial contributions. A voracious reader, she collected books on New Orleans history, naturalism, and spirituality. Her music collection provided a constant soundtrack to her home life, her preference being blues and New Orleans jazz. On rare occasions, she showed her talent in needlework, watercolors, and sketching. Harriet's talents and interests live on in her children and grandchildren.

Harriet is survived by her stepmother, Ruthmae Hamilton, and her extended family; seven brothers and sisters, Anita Hamilton, Lucille Shoup, and Virginia D'Elia, Allen, Gerald, Waldo, and William, and their families; numerous cousins; a son and his spouse, Martin and Shawna Gaston; a daughter and her spouse, Stephanie and Bill Noble; and four beautiful grandchildren.

A memorial service will take place on Friday, January 20, 2012 at 3:00 pm at Newcomer Funeral Home & Crematory, 4104 Needmore Road, where the family will receive friends for two hours prior to the service, from 1:00 – 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, it is requested that donations be made in Harriet's memory to the Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm at (937) 890-7360.