Monroe County Community in Shock After Beloved Grandmother’s Death — Grandson Charged in Tragic Incident

Monroe County Community in Shock After Beloved Grandmother’s Death — Grandson Charged in Tragic Incident

MONROE COUNTY, Miss. — A wave of heartbreak and disbelief has swept across Monroe County following the devastating death of 73-year-old Ollie Hamilton, a deeply respected and cherished member of Smith Chapel Holiness Church. Authorities say Hamilton was allegedly killed by her 17-year-old grandson, Jadynn Hamilton, in a shocking act that has left family, friends, and neighbors struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could occur within their own community.

According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were called to a residence on Tuesday evening after reports of a disturbance. When they arrived, they discovered Ms. Hamilton unresponsive inside the home. Despite emergency responders’ efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators later took Jadynn Hamilton into custody without incident. He now faces murder charges in connection with his grandmother’s death.

Sheriff Kevin Crook described the situation as “deeply tragic and unsettling,” noting that it has touched every corner of the small, tight-knit county. “This is the kind of incident that breaks your heart,” Crook said. “Ms. Ollie Hamilton was loved by everyone who knew her. It’s incredibly hard to wrap your head around something like this.”

A Woman of Faith and Kindness

Those who knew Ollie Hamilton remember her as a woman of deep faith, warmth, and unwavering kindness. A lifelong member of Smith Chapel Holiness Church, she was known for her radiant smile, her gentle spirit, and her steadfast commitment to serving others. For decades, she had been an active part of the congregation — singing in the choir, leading prayer circles, and mentoring younger members of the church.

“She was the heart of our church,” said Pastor Raymond Tate, who had known Hamilton for more than 30 years. “If you ever needed encouragement, a hot meal, or someone to pray with you, Ms. Ollie was there. She loved her family fiercely, especially her grandchildren.”

Neighbors described her as a pillar of the community — the kind of person who never hesitated to lend a helping hand or offer comforting words to those in need. “She treated everyone like family,” said Betty Johnson, a longtime friend and fellow churchgoer. “You couldn’t walk into her home without being greeted with love, laughter, and food. To lose her like this… it’s just devastating.”

A Family Torn Apart

As the community grapples with grief, the tragedy has also sparked conversations about mental health and family struggles. Though investigators have not released details about what led to the incident, those close to the family say there were no signs of tension or trouble. “Nobody saw this coming,” one relative shared quietly. “She loved that boy with all her heart. We’re all just broken.”

The heartbreaking nature of the case — a beloved grandmother allegedly killed by her own grandson — has left both family and community members seeking answers and healing. Counselors and local clergy have stepped forward to offer emotional support and guidance for those struggling to process the tragedy.

Community Response and Support

Smith Chapel Holiness Church plans to hold a memorial service and candlelight vigil later this week to honor Ms. Hamilton’s life and legacy. Church members say they want the gathering to be a time of reflection, unity, and prayer — not only for Ms. Hamilton’s family but also for the entire Monroe County community.

“We’re hurting, but we’re holding onto faith,” Pastor Tate said. “Ms. Ollie would want us to lean on God and to take care of one another through this.”

Moving Forward in Grief

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to understand the events leading up to the tragedy. Meanwhile, those who knew Ollie Hamilton are remembering her for the light she brought into their lives — her generosity, her laughter, and her unshakable faith.

“She was a mother to the motherless, a friend to the lonely, and a servant of God,” said Johnson. “Her loss has left a hole that can never be filled.”

The Monroe County community continues to mourn together, united in shock, sorrow, and love for a woman whose legacy of compassion will endure — even amid unimaginable pain.