THE BALLOON MAN

Obituary for James M. Hamid, Sr.

January 29, 2014 

Galloway, New Jersey

James M. Hamid, Sr.,68, of Galloway passed away on Wednesday January 29, 2014 

Jim was a third generation Circus Producer. He began his career working 

summers carrying huge tin letters used to advertise the current attractions on the electrical billboards of the world famous Steel Pier in Atlantic City, NJ.

After a stint in the U.S. Army and his graduation from La Salle University in 

Philadelphia, Hamid returned to the family amusement businesses, this time as Director of Public Relations and Advertising for the various Hamid holdings, including the Steel Pier, New Jersey State Fair and the Greensboro Agricultural Fair.

When Hamid's grandfather, circus founder George A. Hamid, Sr., fell ill, James, Sr. was thrust into the role of Vice President and Production Manager of the big 3-ring extravaganza. Just like his father and grandfather, James, Sr. grew to love the circus.

James was a member of Atlantic Lodge #221 F. & A.M., a member of Crescent and Murat Shrines, and an honorary member of Arab and Kalurah Shrines. He is also a Past President of Circus Producers Association, Inc. and a member of Circus Fans of America and the Circus Historical Society.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife Lorraine (nee Latini), his children Christine Davis (John), James M. Hamid Jr (Shirley), Carolyn Hamid, Alisha Hamid and Gina Latini. He is also survived by his grandchildren Belinda Hamid, James Hamid III, Haley Hamid, Lexie Davis, Brett Davis, Catherine Davis, Julia Davis and Lily Davis, his sister Elizabeth Roberts (William) and brothers George Hamid III (Patricia) and Timothy Hamid (Linda). He is predeceased by his grandson John Davis III.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Jim's Life Celebration on Monday February 3, 2014 from 10 to 11am at the Jeffries and Keates Funeral Home, Tilton Road and Infield Ave Northfield.

Memorial Service will follow at 11am at the funeral home. Entombment Laurel Memorial Park, Pomona. 

To share your fondest memory of Jim please visit www.lifecelebration.com.

The family requests in lieu of flowers please make donations to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive Tampa Florida 33607 or Children Hospital Foundation, Lockbox #1352 PO Box 5800 Philadelphia PA 19176-1352.