Hammond Lumber Company Mourns Loss of Verna Hammond
Originally Published by: LBM Journal — January 20, 2026
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Hammond Lumber announced that company co-founder Verna Hammond died in early January. The Maine-based company shared the news via social media:
"It is with deep gratitude and remembrance that we honor the life of Verna Hammond, co-founder of Hammond Lumber Company, who passed peacefully on Jan. 5 at the age of 99.
In 1953, Verna loaned her husband, Clifton “Skip” Hammond, $50 to start a sawmill—marking the beginning of what would become Hammond Lumber Company. Together, Verna and Skip co-founded the company, building it from the ground up through hard work, shared commitment, and a belief in doing things the right way.
While Skip was often seen in the mills and yards, Verna was the steady force behind the scenes—handling payroll, billing, and the day-to-day details that allowed the business to grow. Her discipline, consistency, and quiet determination helped form the foundation of our company during its earliest years.
Verna was deeply respected for her work ethic and her commitment to family, employees, and community. She worked for Hammond Lumber Company for 58 years, beginning from a home office while raising her children and later full-time in the company office. Verna retired at the age of 85, a testament to her dedication. She believed in showing up early, doing the job right, and taking pride in work well done. Many of the values that define Hammond Lumber Company today—integrity, responsibility, and care for people—reflect the example she set over a lifetime.
Beyond the business, Verna was devoted to her family and took great joy in time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She had a true salt-of-the-earth personality—down-to-earth, hardworking, and appreciative of life’s simple routines. Verna loved the outdoors and rural Maine, and especially cherished anniversary trips with Skip to Aroostook County and the Downeast region. Together, Verna and Skip built not just a business, but a life rooted in hard work, gratitude, and generosity.
Read more here.