Brett Kelly Hamilton was a respected educator and the late husband of the Pulitzer Prize-winning author Isabel Wilkerson. His life marked by a deep commitment to education, social justice, and community service. In this blog post, we explore his early life, career, romantic relationships, and lasting legacy.
Early Life and Education
Brett Kelly Hamilton was born in 1969 in Atlanta, Georgia, in a loving environment, which Filled him with good values and an eagerness to learn. He graduated from Grady High School in Atlanta and studied mathematics and physics at Centre College in Danville, Ky.
His studies provided a strong foundation for his future work in education and community service.
Professional Career
Hamilton’s own career was characterized by a commitment to educational and social equity. He was an Insurance and financial analyst in the healthcare field, roles that reflected his analytical skills and dedication to improving systems.
Outside his work duties he was very active in the community. He volunteered with patients of Alzheimer’s and tutored at-risk children in Lexington, Ky., and athletes at the University of Kentucky.
These efforts were a reflection of his belief in the transformative power of education and his commitment to uplift underserved communities.
Personal life and relationships with Isabel Wilkerson

Hamilton wed Isabel Wilkerson in 2009: the acclaimed journalist and author of the 2020 bestseller “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents,” which unravels the ways people are classified by race in America and around the world.
Their partnership was one of mutual respect and shared values, not least a commitment to social justice and storytelling. Although exact details pertaining to their wedding remain private, their relationship was defined by extensive support for one another’s professional and personal ventures.
Causes of Death and Health Challenges
Hamilton was diagnosed with a rare, nonmalignant brain tumor in 2000. He battled a host of health issues, some associated with his condition, such as seizures; he underwent numerous surgeries and therapies.
His resilience and optimism were on full display as he continued working and doing community service after these setbacks. Sadly, Hamilton died on July 19, 2015, at the age of 46, and a seizure is suspected to have taken his life.
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Legacy and Impact
Hamilton’s legacy is one of empathy, integrity, and dedication to equality. His contributions to education and community service have had a lasting impact on the lives of those he taught and worked with. Even after his passing, his memory lives on through the impactful people he touched, proving how great a single person can change their community and the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Brett Kelly Hamilton?
Brett Kelly Hamilton died on July 19, 2015, at the age of 46. He was diagnosed in 2000 with a rare, nonmalignant brain tumor and had several surgeries and therapies. Even though his health was unfortunately deteriorating, he was determined to be active in his profession and the community. He is thought to have died of a seizure due to his condition.
Were Brett Kelly Hamilton kids?
According to any publicly available records Brett Kelly Hamilton had no children. He kept most of his private life — especially family — close to the vest, and there is no indication that he had children.
What did Brett Kelly Hamilton do for a living?
Hamilton was an actuary and financial analyst in the healthcare field.
In addition, he was involved with tutoring at risk children as well as university athletes, showing his commitment to mentorship and community development.
How long were Brett Kelly Hamilton and Isabel Wilkerson married?
Isabel Wilkerson and Brett Kelly Hamilton were married in 2009 until his death in 2015, a marriage that lasted about six years.
Is there publically available photos of Brett Kelly Hamilton?
Few photographs exist of Brett Kelly Hamilton, fitting for a man who keeps to himself. But Isabel Wilkerson has posted images that preserve some moments from their life together. One of those images shows Wilkerson, taken by Hamilton, standing outside the Los Angeles home of Hattie McDaniel, the first African American to win an Academy Award.
What was Brett Kelly Hamilton’s contribution to education?
Hamilton had a multi-faceted contribution to education. He tutored at-risk children in Lexington, Ky., and was an academic tutor for athletes at the University of Kentucky.
A pillar of his work in the community was his passion for mentorship and education reflecting his conviction that education is a catalyst for positive change.
Brett Kelly Hamilton struggled with health issues. How did that impact his career?
Hamilton’s professional and volunteer work continued in spite of a rare brain tumor that was diagnosed in 2000; he showed remarkable resilience in his battle. He had several surgeries and therapies but kept to his work schedule until it became impossible. He continues to serve community in his own ways, despite his significant health challenges.
What do we know about Brett Kelly Hamilton’s life and education?
Hamilton, born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1969. He graduated from Grady High School in Atlanta and attended Centre College in Danville, Ky., where he studied mathematics and physics.