John Everett Hamilton

John E. Hamilton of Cleveland, Ohio and Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on October 30, 2023. A trailblazer in the world of magic, and an inspiration to countless individuals, John made history as the first Black American to represent the USA (1979) in the World Congress of Magic in Brussels, Belgium.

John was news photographer at CBS-affiliate WJW-TV8 in Cleveland after he served as Presidential photographer in the White House for 2 years in the Marine Corps. He honed his magic skills under the guidance of legendary manipulator, Neil Foster of Chavez College of Magic, and completed a 30-year career performing in schools nationwide.

John was a passionate advocate for education and empowerment of youth, and his "Magic with a Message” and “Making Right Choices” school assembly programs touched the lives of over two million children since 1986. He also played in school orchestra and volunteered at Job Corps training for youth.

John is survived by his beloved wife Ingrid, his daughter Jennifer, sister Arlene and her daughters Michelle and Racquelle, cousins Awilda, Dawn, Natalie, Jay, Sidney, Wendy and their extended families. Our precious "Johnnyboy" will be remembered for his warm heart and infectious smile, may he rest in peace.