Celebrating the Life of Jon Edward Ham, Sr. in Florence, S.C.
Florence, S.C. — The community of Florence is coming together to honor and remember a beloved figure, Jon Edward Ham, Sr., who peacefully passed away on July 16, 2024. Jon was 72 years old and spent his final moments surrounded by family at Wellmore of Daniel Island, after bravely battling Lewy Body and Frontotemporal Dementia. His life was a tapestry woven with love, laughter, and a zeal for life that brightened the days of everyone he met.
A Life Full of Memories
Jon was born in Frankfurt, Germany, as the son of Katherine White Ham and Edward Quincy Ham, both of whom have preceded him in death. He is also remembered fondly by two sisters, Donna Ham and Terry Ham Fuentes, who have since passed. But Jon’s spirit lived on through his immediate family: Kathy Ham, his lifelong love, their son Jay Ham from Darlington, SC, and stepson Chase Payne and his wife Anna. Jon was particularly cherished by his two granddaughters, Palmer and Finley Payne, who were the apples of his eye.
A Journey Through Sports and Business
Growing up, Jon attended McClenaghan High School in Florence, where he truly shined. He was a star athlete, excelling in various sports including football, in which he served as team captain. His talents earned him a scholarship to Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, NC, where he continued to play the sport he loved.
Later on, Jon and his brother Dickie ventured to Cocoa Beach, Florida, to pursue their studies in thermodynamics. It was there that they embarked on their entrepreneurial journey with their first business, Thermal Air & Electric. Over the years, the brothers undertook various successful ventures, including real estate and home construction. Jon eventually made his mark in the community as the owner of Quick Silver Pawn Shop and Quick Silver Bail Bonds, ultimately retiring in November 2020.
A Generous Spirit
What truly set Jon apart was his vibrant personality. Friends and family describe him as having an electric personality and a smile that could light up the darkest of days. He cultivated many everlasting friendships and was known for his quiet acts of generosity. Jon preferred to help others without seeking recognition, believing that kindness should be its own reward. His positive attitude and infectious sense of humor were magnets for those around him.
Jon found joy in simple pleasures — fishing and hunting with his sons, creating fond memories with numerous young men who looked up to him as a second father. He cherished nature, finding solace in the rivers and mountains, and now, in spirit, he soars among the clouds, watching over those he loved.
A Community in Mourning
Jon was an integral part of the local community, a dedicated member of “The Love You Mean It (LYMI)” Sunday School Class at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Florence. He also contributed his time and talents as a former member of the Florence Evening Sertoma Club, where he earned a Leadership Award for his success in fundraising efforts. His legacy is not just one of professional achievement but also one of community love and support.
Celebration of Life
The Ham family invites everyone to join them in a Celebration of Life service on August 3, 2024, at 3:00 PM at Ebenezer Baptist Church located at 524 S. Ebenezer Rd, Florence, SC. The family will welcome friends and loved ones from 2:00 to 3:00 PM. Rev. David Wike will officiate the service, creating a space for all to come together, share stories, and find comfort in each other’s presence.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Ebenezer Baptist Church or the Lewy Body Dementia Association, encouraging acts of remembrance that reflect Jon’s spirit of generosity and love for his community.
Jon Edward Ham, Sr. will be deeply missed, yet his legacy will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
