Obituary The Reverend Dr David Hamer
The Reverend Dr David Hamer, who passed away recently, leaves behind a remarkable legacy of faith, intellect, and humanity. For nearly thirty years, David was a cornerstone of life at Blundell’s — not only as Chaplain, but as a teacher, mentor, philosopher, and friend to countless students and colleagues.
David’s path to Blundell’s was as thoughtful and principled as the man himself. Originally from South Africa, he came to England in the early 1960s to train for ordination at Mirfield in Yorkshire, before reading Theology at Trinity College, Oxford. He returned to Cape Town during a period of deepening racial oppression, ministering to a multiracial parish under the shadow of apartheid. This experience profoundly shaped his moral vision, which remained at the heart of his work for the rest of his life. His belief in justice, inclusion, and the dignity of every person was not just spoken from the pulpit — it was lived every day.
In 1973, Blundell’s welcomed David, his wife Susan, and their four (later six) children into the school community. Originally offered a seven-year contract, David stayed for nearly three decades — a testament to the enduring impact he made. His role as Chaplain was far more than ceremonial. He was a steady and compassionate presence, guiding generations through times of celebration and sorrow alike. His sermons, always thoughtful and eloquent, often blended sharp insight with quiet humour, and many still speak of his ability to make faith feel both deeply personal and intellectually alive.
Yet David’s contribution extended well beyond the chapel. As a teacher of Classics, he brought ancient texts to life, helping students to see their relevance to the modern world. Outside the classroom, he was a trusted advisor to pupils and staff alike — never overbearing, always approachable. His office was a place where people felt they could be heard.
An accomplished academic in his own right, David lectured for the Royal Institute of Philosophy, tutored with the Open University, and undertook doctoral research in medical ethics at the University of Exeter. He also served on various educational and ecclesiastical committees, offering both wisdom and practical leadership wherever it was needed. And somehow, in the midst of all this, he found time for sailing, squash, croquet, woodworking, and keeping up with his famously lively household of pets.
When he and Susan moved into North Close in the 1990s, as it became a girls’ boarding house, they became surrogate parents to a new generation. Their warmth and hospitality helped create a true home for the girls in their care — one full of conversation, care, and character.
David’s influence spanned three headships at the school. Throughout, he remained a figure of integrity and independence — someone who could offer quiet counsel or firm challenge when the moment required. His moral clarity, sense of humour, and deep compassion made him one of the most respected and beloved figures in the school’s modern history.
In retirement, David remained close to the Blundell’s community while also enjoying life in Uplowman, frequent visits to Seaton and Brittany, and the company of his extraordinarily gifted family. After Susan’s passing, David found happiness again in his marriage to Carol, with whom he shared a deep and devoted partnership.
He continued to inspire those around him, not by grand gestures, but by the constancy of his example — thoughtful, principled, generous.
David Hamer’s life was a life of service — to faith, to education, to truth, and to others. He will be deeply missed and long remembered.
We extend our deepest condolences to Carol and the family and give thanks for the life of a man who gave so much, so quietly, and so well.