Larry Ellis

Hamme

Dr. Larry Ellis Hamme, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on November 24, 1948, in Oxford, North Carolina, he was the fifth of six children born to Oscar Cornell Hamme and Lucy Davis.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Oscar Cornell Hamme, Jr. and Ottowai Richard Hamme, III. He is survived by his siblings Ashton Theodore Hamme, Sr., Carolyn Veronica Hamme Allen, and Eula Geraldine Hamme Downey.

He grew up on the family farm in Oxford, where he learned the value of hard work, kindness, and integrity, qualities that would define his life. The life on the farm was one of freedom and love. No restrictions for an adventurous boy. He later would joke, if circumstances had been different, he would still be there. This was in reference to the many times he ran away back to the farm from his Aunt Ollie's house.

He and his sister Carolyn were later lovingly raised by their Aunt Ollie Hamme Johnson, whose care and guidance helped shape the man he became.

He began his early education in Oxford at Orange Street Grade School. He was a proud little graduate from Mary Potter Junior High School. He graduated from Mary Potter High School with honors. He was quite the athlete while in high school. He was well known for his athletic skills in football and baseball.

A lifelong learner and pioneer, he earned his bachelor's degree from North Carolina Central University and went on to make history as the first African American to graduate from the University of Toledo's Clinical Psychology program, earning his doctoral degree in 1987.

His professional career began at the East Center, now known as Unison Behavioral Health Group, in 1979. Over the course of four decades, he rose through the ranks to become Chief Clinical Officer. His compassion, intelligence, and dedication touched countless lives. Colleagues and clients alike remember him for his wisdom, humor, and unwavering commitment to helping others, especially the youth he so passionately served.

After retiring from Unison in 2016, Dr. Hamme continued his life's work through his private practice, established in 1987, where he counseled and supported clients until his passing. His private practice became his greatest professional joy, a space where his empathy and insight changed lives every day.

Over the years, Dr. Hamme received numerous awards and honors recognizing his leadership, clinical expertise, and service to his community. His work and voice were featured in professional publications and television programs, where he shared his knowledge and his heartfelt belief in people's capacity for growth and change.

Above all else, he was a devoted father. He raised his daughter, Sana Tene Hamme, as a single parent, and the two shared an unbreakable bond, they were each other's world. He is also survived by his son, Lamar Ellis Hamme, and his cherished grandson, Koah Elias Hamme, who brought him endless joy.

Those who knew him will remember his sharp wit, generous spirit, and deep compassion for both people and animals. He lived with integrity, led with kindness, and gave of himself freely to everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.

He leaves behind a host of loving family members, lifelong friends, colleagues, and countless clients whose lives were changed by his care. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.