Renee Hamilton

Renée (Bittar) Hamilton, age 74, of West Newbury passed unexpectedly on Nov. 9 at the Golden Pond assisted living facility in Hopkinton. She was the beloved wife of 52 years to R. Bruce Hamilton.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, May 1, 1947, she was the daughter of the late Albert and Mabel (Naman) Bittar. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Wagner College in Staten Island, New York, where she met her future husband, Bruce, then went on to receive a master’s degree in special education from Regis College.

Renée and Bruce were married on Nov. 1, 1969, and lived in Woburn, where Renée taught at a Catholic grammar school. They eventually settled in West Newbury, in the house they built themselves. When they moved to West Newbury, she taught at the Spofford Pond Elementary School in Boxford for many years. Throughout her rewarding career as a teacher, she was truly loved by her many students.

Renée was active in her community and enjoyed spending time with her family and working in her yard. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and spending time talking with people. Renée had a wonderful sense of humor and could light up a room. People always felt comforted and loved when they were around her.

She leaves behind a lifetime of wonderful memories to her husband, Bruce Hamilton of West Newbury; two nieces, Lisa (Bittar) Hurter and husband Robert of Shrewsbury, and Alexis Bittar and husband Devin Burke of Solana Beach, California; two nephews, Christopher Bittar of Boston and Matthew Bittar and partner John of Saugus; and her grand-nephews, Nicholas and Gregory Hurter; along with extended family and dear friends. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. In addition to her parents, she also was predeceased by her brother, David A. Bittar.

Visiting hours will be held at the Elliott, Woodworth & Rogers Family Funeral Home, 35 Green Street, Newburyport, on Saturday, Nov. 20, from 1-3 p.m. To honor her love for all animals, kindly consider making a donation in memory of Renee B. Hamilton to the MSPCA at Nevins Farm, 400 Broadway, Methuen, MA 01844.