100-year-old Clyde Hamby “ain’t in no hurry”
Published Oct. 15, 2004
By Krista Richmond
Chronicle staffwriter
Oct. 7 wasn’t just any birthday for Clyde Hamby of Westel. He celebrated 100
years of life. “I’ve enjoyed life,” said Hamby. “I ain’t in no hurry.” Hamby was born and raised in Hebbertsburg to Dexter and Dora Hamby. They lived close to Yellow Creek, and his father worked at the local post office. In his early 20s, he met Ora Hunter, who worked in Rockwood and lived next to his sister. They married and had eight children. The six children still living are Imogene Delius of Westel, Thelma Potter of Crab Orchard, Dallas Hamby of Ozone, Glenn Hamby of Alloway, Willard Hamby of Hebbertsburg and Roy Hamby of Crossville. Now there a five generations in his family, including several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. Hamby lost is wife in November 2002 after 74 years of marriage. His youngest sister, Arleva Hembree, lives in Rockwood. When asked about the secret to his long life, he said, “I don’t feel too old. I eat three times a day and sleep all night.” Genetics might have something to do with it as well. His mother lived to be 102. Hamby also likes to stay active. He is involved in the Masonic Lodge, in which he has been a member of for 50 years. Hamby was a farmer, raising livestock and logging in the mountains, and still keeps chickens. Hamby will celebrate his birthday on Saturday with a gathering at the Hebbertsburg Community Center.
[Source, Crossville Chronicle]