Violet (Cook) Hammond

Violet Cook Hammond, 84, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 21, 2025, at her home surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.

Born on August 2, 1940, in Wake County, Violet was the beloved daughter of the late Milton Cook and Ila Bullock Cook. Raised on a family farm, Violet learned the values of hard work, faith, and resilience from an early age. As a farmer’s daughter, she spent her youth working in the tobacco fields of Wake County—labor that shaped her character and gave her an enduring appreciation for the land and for life’s simple joys.

Violet had a deep love for gardening, and she took immense pride in growing vibrant flowers that mirrored the joy and color she brought to those around her. Her hands were rarely still—whether she was tending to her garden, preparing a home-cooked meal, or wrapping her arms around a friend or family member in one of her signature “Hey Shug Hugs.” She found joy in the little things, like casting a fishing line beside her husband, then hosting lively fish fries where her famous hushpuppies were always the star of the table.

She spent many years serving her community with love and care as the Cafeteria Manager at 71st High School in Fayetteville. Violet wasn’t just a cafeteria worker—she was a mother figure, a mentor, and a friend to hundreds of students and colleagues. Her warm smile and kind heart left a lasting impression on all who passed through her lunch line.

Violet was a faithful member and cherished greeter at Freedom Biker Church, where she greeted each person with warmth, laughter, and open arms. Her hugs were legendary, and her joyful spirit made everyone feel at home. She embodied the heart of a true servant, living out the virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman—dignified, compassionate, wise, and fiercely devoted to her family.

She was the rock of her family—the glue that held generations together. To know her was to be seen, loved, and accepted without reservation. Her legacy is one of unwavering love, steadfast faith, and the kind of gentle strength that changes lives.

Violet was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jimmy Hammond; her sister, Carolyn Hinshaw; her brother, Felton Cook; and her grandson, Jimmy Hammond, Jr.

Left to cherish her memory are her loving husband of 65 years, Theodore “Ted” Hammond; her son, Mark Hammond and his wife Regina; her daughter, Jenny Hammond; her brother, Durwood Cook and his wife Peggy; her cherished grandchildren, Christopher Hammond, Michael Hammond, and Victor Encarnacion; and a host of extended family members, dear friends, church family, and former students who were touched by her light.

The family will receive friends on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home. A private family burial will be held at Cumberland Memorial Gardens. A Celebration of Life service will take place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 4 p.m. at Freedom Biker Church, where Violet’s life and faith will be honored with joy, laughter, music, and remembrance.

Donations be made in Violet’s memory to Freedom Biker Church or a charity of your choice—continuing her lifelong legacy of nurturing and kindness.

Funeral arrangements by:
Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home
545 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, NC 28301
Online condolences may be made at www.jerniganwarren.com

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