MONROE COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) — The Monroe County community is reeling after the shocking death of 73-year-old Ollie Hamilton, a cherished member of Smith Chapel Holiness Church, who was allegedly killed by her grandson, 17-year-old Jadynn Hamilton. Friends, family, and church members are struggling to process the tragedy, which has shaken the close-knit community to its core.
“All of our hearts are hurting to lose Ms. Ollie,” said Robert Howell, a long-time member of Smith Chapel Holiness Church. Howell described Hamilton as a pillar of the church and the community, someone always ready to lend a helping hand and guide younger generations. “She was the mother of the church here, and she always helped the community. She was a role model for the younger women, and she was always doing what she could to teach them to be young ladies.”
The horrific incident unfolded on Wednesday evening, October 29, when deputies with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at Smith Chapel Holiness Church. Upon arrival, law enforcement discovered that Hamilton had been violently attacked and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“This is a tragedy of the worst kind,” said Monroe County Sheriff Kevin Crook. “Because you have a beloved church member killed and then come to find out within 24 hours that she was killed by a family member.”
Authorities have arrested Jadynn Hamilton, the grandson of the victim, who is now charged with murder. His bond has been set at $500,000. While the motive for the attack remains unclear, preliminary reports suggest the incident may have occurred during an argument between the two.
The news has left many in shock, especially those who knew the suspect. Howell, who has known Jadynn Hamilton all his life, expressed disbelief at the young man’s involvement. “No, no, and I have never seen this in him,” Howell said. “And I have been knowing him all his life.”
Community members are grappling with a range of emotions, from grief over the loss of a beloved church member to the heartbreak of learning that the perpetrator was a family member. “So many things are happening in life,” Howell added. “And we know these are our times that the Bible spoke of, and we are just being in prayer for the family.”
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding Hamilton’s death. Officials urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward to aid the investigation. Tips can be submitted to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, Golden Triangle Crimestoppers, or anonymously through the p3 tips app.
This devastating event serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact of violence within families and communities. The Monroe County community mourns the loss of Ollie Hamilton, honoring her legacy of kindness, mentorship, and unwavering faith.
