Timothy Wayne Hampton, just a few weeks shy of his 65th birthday and looking forward to retirement, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, October 29, 2026, following a sudden aortic aneurysm that ultimately led to a heart attack.

Born on November 22, 1961, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Tim was the first son of Peggy and Donald Hampton. Throughout his life, Tim was devoted to his family and found purpose in serving and inspiring others through his many years of teaching and coaching.

Tim graduated from Providence Day School in Charlotte before earning his bachelor's degree in Biology from Wofford College. He went on to receive master's degrees in Public Health and Microbiology from the University of South Carolina and Georgia State University. Following his education, Tim served as a federal agent with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), working on environmental criminal investigations and prosecutions.

After his years in federal service, Tim found his home in academia, settling in Columbia, South Carolina, where he spent his career as a college professor teaching biology and anatomy. His dedication to education and his students reflected his lifelong commitment to helping others learn and grow.

Outside of the classroom, Tim enjoyed hunting and spending time in the outdoors. He was also an active member of Cimarron Outdoors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring and providing outdoor experiences for veterans with physical limitations. Through this organization, Tim shared his love of nature and helped others experience the freedom, joy, and connection that the outdoors can bring.

Tim was a man with a big personality: funny, stubborn, and passionate about the things and people he loved. He had strong convictions, a sense of humor, and a determination that was unmistakably his own. Above all else, Tim was a man of faith who deeply treasured his family, friends, and Southern heritage. He lived with passion and purpose, leaving an impression on the many lives he touched along the way.

Tim is survived by his beloved wife, Patty; his twin children, Miles and Francis; his mother, Peggy; and his brother, James. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on November 3, 2026, at Irmo First Baptist Church, 7068 Nursery Road, Columbia, SC 29212. A private family luncheon will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Cimarron Outdoors.