Michael Anthony "Big Hamm" Hamm began life's journey on February 11, 1957, born to the Betty J. Hamm.

He accepted Christ as his Lord and personal Savior at an early age. He graduated from Walter Wellborn High School in Anniston, Alabama.

He was well known and was loved around various states for his bigger than life personality. He was a loyal and treasured employee of Dee Ford's  for over forty years, until his health started to decline. Although he was no longer physically able to be at the club, his love and loyalty for the organization never ceased.

Michael's memories will forever be cherished by: his son, Jimmy James of Gadsden, Alabama; his mother, Betty J. Hamm of Gadsden, Alabama; his brothers, Marion (Pat) Hamm, Sr. of Detroit, Michigan, Hubert (Consuewella) Hamm, Spencer Hamm, Gregory (Vanessa) Hamm, all of Gadsden, Alabama, Carlton Hamm of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Wallace Hamm of Detroit, Michigan; his sisters, Eulinda Hamm of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Lattie Orr of Bynum, Alabama; seven grandchildren; and a number of loved nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by: his wife, Brendette Hamm; his daughter, Jemilda Hamm; his sisters, Amanda Hamm and Martha Sumlin; his brother, Herbert Hamm; and his godparents, Raymond and Blanche Sumlin.