Tributes are pouring in for a devoted couple from Barry, celebrated as 'passionate supporters' of the Wales Air Ambulance, whose dedicated fundraising efforts spanned 15 years and raised thousands of pounds for the lifesaving service.
A Lifelong Partnership in Service
Howard and Carol Hamilton, well-known figures in their local community and parents to three children with four grandchildren, died within ten months of each other. Carol Hamilton, 74, had worked for a loan company and served as a steward at an RAF base before channelling her energies into charity work. Her husband, Howard, 77, was a Vale of Glamorgan councillor, a former mayor, and served as an elected member of Barry Town Council from 2008. Having contracted polio as a child, he was a staunch advocate for disabled residents.
Their daughter, Colette Oaten, a social worker from Barry, shared heartfelt memories. "My parents were incredible and would do anything to support the community in which they lived and served," she said. "People would automatically go to my mum and dad if they needed help. They were a real team. He would give the information to mum, and she would sit and write letters on his behalf."
A Driving Force for Charity
The couple's formal commitment to the Wales Air Ambulance deepened when they held the roles of Mayor and Madam Mayoress of Barry from 2009 to 2010, selecting the charity as their chosen cause. Colette explained that her mother became "a driving force," with her passion enduring long after their term ended. "Mum was always there for my dad... But he was the same with her. Whatever she set her mind to, he would support her. That is how he became a fundraiser for Wales Air Ambulance," Colette said.
Carol was renowned for her organisational skills, proactively coordinating events, bucket collections, and tombola stands. "Mum was so incredibly creative. Whenever we went shopping, she would be looking for something that she could sell on a stand," Colette recalled. Howard complemented her efforts with his natural ability to connect with people, often giving talks about the service. Their daughter noted, "the biggest joy for them both was seeing how much money they had raised at the end of the day." The couple would excitedly count proceeds from supermarket collections, proudly sharing the totals with their family.
A Legacy of Community Spirit
Tragedy struck the family in October 2024 when Carol's health deteriorated suddenly. She was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away just four days later. Remarkably, she had been preparing a stand for a two-day Christmas Fair, which went ahead the day after her funeral, organised by Colette and volunteers. "It was so moving to see them looking for her to have a chat and say hello," Colette said. "My mum would have been so happy that we raised quite a bit over those two days."
Howard, who was undergoing cancer treatment, saw his health decline following his wife's death, and he passed away in July 2025. Colette described the past year as 'very difficult' but found solace in the outpouring of support. The family received cards, and the Wales Air Ambulance sent a condolence letter, which Colette said meant a great deal given her parents' dedication.
Rhian Jackson, Volunteer Development Coordinator for Wales Air Ambulance, paid official tribute: "Carol and Howard have left an incredible legacy... They were both so generous and giving of their time, and had the warmest community spirit. Together... they helped raise more than £13,000 for the charity. Every pound they raised will have helped save many lives."
The couple are remembered as a true team whose shared commitment to their community and the Wales Air Ambulance has left a profound and lasting impact.
