Joseph Lee Hammond, 55, of Independence, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, April 9, 2022. Born in Kansas City, Missouri on December 18, 1966, to Richard and Diane Hammond, Joe remained a lifelong resident of Independence. A 1985 graduate of William Chrisman High School, Joe joined the United States Air Force following high school in 1985. During his service in the Air Force, he achieved the rank of Airman First Class and was assigned to the 51st Fighter Wing. While stationed at Osan Air Base in South Korea, Joe was awarded the Overseas Service Short Tour Ribbon. In his free time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, riding his motorcycle, good BBQ, and being the life of the party. Most of all, Joe loved being with his family and friends. Joe was a very caring and giving man, and his family and friends held a special place in his heart.
Joe is preceded in death by his father, Richard Hammond; his grandparents, Barbara (Hammond) Murray and Curtis Hammond, and Rebecca and George Degeare.
He is survived by his mother Diane Hammond of Independence Missouri; sister, Trina Swope and her husband Tom Swope of Independence Missouri; nieces Oshen Brixey (Shane Brixey) of Greenwood Missouri, Maddie Leslie (Nick Leslie), Ravyn Swope, Becka Valentine (Brett Valentine), and Tommie Swope of Independence Missouri; six great nieces and nephews; many other relatives and a host of friends.
Visitation will be 9:00-10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 16, 2022 at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home; Independence, MO. Memorial service to follow at 10:00 a.m. with Thomas Swope Sr. officiating. Following the services, a last ride will be held at 11:00am in honor of Joe’s love of motorcycles and will begin at Royer New Salem and commence at the VFW Post 1000. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations be made to the VFW Post 1000.
Obituary submitted by family.
Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home Independence, MO 816-796-8600