Greg Hampton: A Titan of Jones Senior High School
TRENTON, N.C. – In the heart of Jones County, a legend walked among us. Greg Hampton, a name synonymous with Jones Senior High School, left an indelible mark not only on the football field but in the lives of everyone he touched. His sudden passing over the weekend has left a void in the community, a testament to the impact of a man who was more than a coach, more than an athletic director – he was a mentor, a friend, a father figure, and the very embodiment of what it means to be a Trojan.
Hampton's journey at Jones Senior spanned over two decades, a tenure marked by dedication and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As the football coach and later as the athletic director, he shaped the lives of countless young athletes, instilling in them the values of hard work, discipline, and integrity. His transition to overseeing gameday operations was a natural fit for a man who couldn't stay away from the school he loved so dearly.
Principal Joseph Nobles, reflecting on his relationship with Hampton, shared, "He was one of the few people I would let my guard down with. We talked about everything from the Marine Corps to football to old age. He wasn’t just tough; he was tender-hearted and super loyal to Jones Senior."
Hampton's legacy extends beyond the football field. He was a mentor who took pride in teaching the history and values of being a Trojan. "He always left me better than what I was," Nobles added, a sentiment that echoes in the hallways of Jones Senior High.
Tod Morgan, a colleague, remembered Hampton as a man of great character. "He was tough, a Marine, but he loved all his players. His impact on Jones County and the young people he coached was his greatest accomplishment," Morgan said.
Not only did Hampton mold the young Trojans, but he also helped build the skills of the coaches around him. Jones Sr. Assistant Football Coach Stephen Perry said, 'For over 20 years, he did whatever was needed to ensure that students and athletes had financial support, housing, and food, or to make sure that a sport had a coach. What he did for me personally was to mentor and shape me into the coach, teacher, and man I am now.'"
Coach Dawn Kantz spoke of Hampton's profound influence on and off the field. "For 20 years, he was the heart and soul of Jones Senior HS. He always put the kids first, making the school a better place for everyone. His absence leaves big shoes to fill," Kemp expressed with heartfelt emotion.
Greg Hampton's legacy is not just in the wins or the accolades but in the lives he shaped and the community he helped build. His consistent attire of shorts and a compression shirt, topped with a coach's shirt, was more than a fashion statement; it was a symbol of his approachability and commitment.
As Jones County mourns the loss of a titan, the memories and lessons imparted by Greg Hampton will continue to resonate. He was a man who put others first – his country, his colleagues, his students. In doing so, he became a father figure to many, a beacon of strength and compassion.
Greg Hampton's story is not just about football or sports; it's about the power of human connection and the enduring impact one individual can have on a community. As we remember him, let's celebrate the values he championed and strive to embody the spirit of a true Trojan, just as he did every day of his remarkable life.
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