Estill Weldon "Windy" Hargraves

Estill Weldon “Windy” Hargraves, age 95, passed away on May 29, 2025, at The Woodlands of Hamilton. Windy was born on September 5,1929, in Hamilton, Ohio, the son of Elias and Provie (Dixon) Hargraves. He was educated in the Hamilton City Schools and graduated from Hamilton High School.

On July 13, 1950, he married Kathleen Gambrel and after 73 years of a very loving marriage; she preceded him in death in December, 2023. Although they were not blessed with children of their own, Windy and Kathleen had many “children” who were so special to them and were shown love in so many ways.  In return, those “children” loved their Aunt Kat and Uncle Windy. Uncle Windy loved kids and would do everything he could to see them have a good time.  Whether it was the Hamilton Mini Circus, the Rodeo or the annual trips to Fantasy Farm.  At first the trips were reserved for close family but then eventually progressed to a church van full of kids.  He loved to see their smiles and was selfless in that love.  He was always private about his emotions and would rarely say “I love you” but when he did, you knew he meant it.

As an aficionado of the steel guitar, he loved country music.  Windy would often talk about standing outside of the Ryman auditorium without enough money to buy a ticket but would look in the windows with his friend to watch the artists perform.  He was also a proud member of the US Army and served in Germany during the Korean War.

When it came to his relationship with Jesus, Windy was also very private although always gracious to listen, whether it was to Deron at a young age or Ray as an adult, and many other family members and friends.  Later in life, he assured many that he had indeed asked Jesus to forgive his sins and come into his heart. He attended the Twinbrook Hills Baptist Church for many years until his health declined.

Windy is survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathleen; brothers, Kenneth, Robert, Bonnie, and Chelsea Hargraves; and sisters, Oma Murphy, Viola Anders, Zula Mae Gibbs, Gladys Ponder and Willie Jo Bowling. He will be missed by all who knew him. But he has been reunited with other family members and the love of his life, Kathleen Hargraves.

Visitation and funeral will be held at the Brown Dawson Flick Funeral Home, 1350 Millville Avenue, Hamilton, Ohio 45013 on Thursday, June 5, 2025 with visitation from 10-11 am and funeral service immediately following at 11am with Ray Riddick and Dr. Dennis Riddick officiating. Burial to follow in Rose Hill Burial Park.

The family would like to express their appreciation to The Woodlands of Hamilton and Day City Hospice for their compassionate care and support.