John M. Hammer, Jr.

John M. Hammer Jr., age 89, of Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, went to be with the Lord on January 27, 2026.

He was born January 13, 1937 to Sara and John Hammer in Tampa, FL. He graduated from Plant High School in 1955 and the University of Florida in 1959. It was there that he met Kay, the love of his life. They shared 67 years of marriage, rooted in deep faith that shaped their life together.

After college, John joined his father at John M. Hammer & Associates, where he enjoyed a successful career - but he was defined far more by how he lived than by what he did. His true calling was friendship. He never met a stranger, and the relationships he built were deep and enduring.

Faith was the steady foundation of John’s life, reflecting his devotion to his wife, his family, and the many people he loved. He gave generously of his time, talents, and resources serving others through countless ministries.

After retiring, John and Kay spent 20 treasured years in Highlands, North Carolina, before moving to Ponte Vedra Beach in 2017 to be closer to their family. They have been active members of Sawgrass Chapel and found great joy in time spent with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Known early in life as John or Johnny, he became known to nearly everyone as “JJ” after becoming a grandfather more than forty years ago. JJ was a gifted storyteller and natural comedian. He was an exceptional friend and everyone’s favorite dinner guest. He was someone who made people feel welcome, seen, and cared for.

John is survived by his wife, Kay Underhill Hammer; his children, Mary Ann Fiorentino, Kathy and Jay Summerall, Debby and Randy Warner, and John and Meg Hammer; his grandchildren, Elizabeth Fiorentino, Caroline Fiorentino, Martin and Ruth Fiorentino, Mary Beth and Christopher Dell, Patrick Summerall, Annie Summerall, William Summerall, Randy and Chelsea Warner, Mary Whitten Warner, John IV and Elena Hammer, and Frank Hammer; and his great-grandchildren, George Dell, Vivienne Dell, Sophie Dell, and Korra Hammer. He is also survived by his sister Ann Hammer Trinkle.

John’s life was marked by faith, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to relationships. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and the love he gave so freely.

A service will be held Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Sawgrass Country Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks contributions be made to the Vicar’s Landing Scholarship Fund, Samaritan’s Purse, or Forgiving Forward.