Stonington, November 7, 2025
News Summary
The Stonington community grieves the loss of Jack W. Hamblen, Jr., who passed away at 80. Known for his love of family, tool-and-die making, and golfing achievements, he left an indelible mark on those around him. A celebration of his life and legacy, including his passion for golf, is being planned to honor his contributions to the community.
Stonington Community Mourns the Loss of Jack W. Hamblen, Jr. at 80
On October 28, 2025, the Stonington community received the heart-wrenching news of the passing of Jack W. Hamblen, Jr., who left this world at the age of 80. Jack was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
A Life Rooted in Family and Love
Born on New Year’s Day in 1945 in Castine, Maine, Jack was the son of May and Jack W. Hamblen, Sr., who hailed from Deer Isle, Maine. Jack’s life was marked by his devotion to family, and he cherished his role as a husband to his dear wife, Audrey, with whom he shared 59 wonderful years. Together, they raised three children: Deborah (along with partner Walter), Darleen, and Jack (who partnered with Bridget). Jack was also the proud brother of Melinda (and husband Gordon) and adored his two grandchildren, Nicholas and Ava, showering them with love and affection.
A Passion for Tool-and-Die Making
Jack’s professional journey took him to Stamford, Connecticut, where he set out to build a career in tool-and-die making. His dedication and hard work paid off as he obtained a journeyman license through the Pitney Bowes apprentice program. Following this, he worked tirelessly at Billings Diesel & Marine in Stonington, honing his craft and later contributing to the Stonington Lobster Co-op. But Jack’s most notable achievement was his pioneering work as a mussel farmer at Great Eastern Mussel Farms and his entrepreneurial spirit in establishing “Hamblen’s Seafood,” which provided local restaurants and inns with delicacies like dried fish, crab meat, smoked mussels, and fresh produce.
Joyful Memories with Family
Jack and his family made countless memories during family vacations to beautiful New Hampshire and sunny Myrtle Beach, often alongside close friends Robert and Colleen Burgess. An outdoor enthusiast, he cherished his camping adventures at the Shady Oaks campground, where laughter and love were in abundance.
A Golfer with Unmatched Skills
Jack was known far and wide as an avid golfer, taking to the golf course since the age of ten. Throughout his life, he participated in numerous tournaments, showcasing his talent with an impressive record of four holes-in-one and winning the coveted President’s Cup at the Island Country Club in Deer Isle. Even after retirement, he kept the love for the game alive by serving as a groundskeeper at the Bucksport Golf Course.
A Kind Heart Remembered
Both family and friends remember Jack for his *contagious smile*, his love of *ice cream*, and his *kind heart*. In the final year of his life, family members expressed their deep gratitude to those who supported Jack, particularly to Robert Burgess and Richard Larrabee, who were more like brothers to him.
A Celebration of Life to Come
As the time approaches, a celebration of Jack’s life is being planned to honor the incredible man he was. Jack W. Hamblen, Jr. leaves behind a legacy of love, community, and laughter that will never be forgotten.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Penobscot Bay Press: Jack W. Hamblen, Jr.
- Wikipedia: Maine
- Penobscot Bay Press: Island Ad-Vantages
- Google Search: Jack W. Hamblen Jr.
- The New York Times: Farming the Sea Bottom
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mussel
- Penobscot Bay Press: Castine Patriot
- Google News: Obituary Jack W. Hamblen
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
