Beverly Frances Hamway

Beverly Frances Hamway, née Wickham, 83, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026.

Born in Margaretville, N.Y., on October 3, 1942, to John Wickham and Helen Todd, Bev was a lifelong resident of the Catskills Mountain.  She met her future husband, Lou Hamway, at Margaretville Central School. Their marriage would last 66 years, until Lou's passing in 2025.

Bev was, above all, a person of quiet resilience. As a young mother, she juggled the demands of raising two children while attending nursing school, first at Delhi Tech and then at Empire State College — distinguishing herself in both programs. Bev went on to devote four decades to caring for her patients as a Registered Nurse at Margaretville Hospital, Margaretville Central School, and the Delaware County Infirmary. Her patients remember her warmth, steady presence, and dedication to those in her care.

Away from work, Bev poured that same energy into making a home — or, rather, many homes. A talented decorator with a sharp eye for detail, Bev loved nothing more than seeing the potential in a tired house and turning it into a vibrant home. Of all the homes she renovated, Bev especially loved the house on Perch Lake, where she and Lou spent some of their happiest years, hosting family and throwing the parties for which Bev became legendary — none more so than her annual Memorial Day celebration.  A natural entertainer and gifted cook, Bev made every guest feel at home. Bev also enjoyed tending her flower gardens, playing cards with friends, and catching up on her soaps.

In retirement, Bev and Lou spent warm winters in Dunedin, Florida, where Bev was a de facto social chair. But nothing could keep her away from her family, as she was always willing to drop anything to be a loving nana to her five grandchildren. Bev was also a devoted member of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church, where she put her considerable talents to baking apple pies to raise money for the parish. 

Throughout her life, Bev was a lover of animals, especially her cocker spaniels.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Bev's name be made to the Heart of the Catskills Humane Society in Delhi, N.Y.

Bev is survived by her daughter Debra, her son Dane, her grandchildren Jesse, Elyse, Gillian, Johnny, and Chloe, and her siblings Joann, Barbara, and Michael. She is predeceased by her brother Jack.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on April 25, 2026 at St. John’s Episcopal Church located at 134 ½ Main St, Delhi, N.Y.