Elige "Buddy" Avon Hamm

 Elige A. Hamm, lovingly known as "Buddy," passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on November 8, 1948, Buddy lived a life of service, dedication, patience and love. 

Buddy proudly served his nation as a 3rd Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1970. A Vietnam War veteran, he toured Vietnam, France, Greece, and Italy, earning the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal for his honorable service. After his military career, Buddy pursued a successful career as a construction foreman. His legacy is cemented in the skyline of Nashville, most notably through his contributions to the construction of the Bridgestone Arena.

Buddy’s life revolved around his family, who brought him endless pride and joy. He is survived by: His daughters: Lisa Marie Rescigno (husband Antonio) and Rebecca Lynn Bredow (husband Gary). His grandchildren: Giovanni (29), Angelo (26), Carmela (23), Antonio (19), James (16), and Zoey (13). His great-grandchild: Antonio.

He is also survived by his sisters, Vickie Ruth and Garie Ann, and his brother-in-law, Tim Wright (husband to Garie Ann). Buddy was preceded in death by his father, Roy Prather Hamm; his mother, Mary Elizabeth Hamm; and his sister, Bonita Lynn Hamm, whose memories he cherished deeply. 

Having spent the last 22 years as a wheelchair-bound stroke victim, Buddy demonstrated remarkable patience, resilience, and fortitude until the very end.  Buddy will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, a proud veteran, and a hardworking craftsman. His courage, strength, and legacy lives on through the family he adored and the lives he touched. 

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever inspire those who were blessed to know him.