From Trials to Blessings: The Story of Patch the Pirate - a podcast by Hans Blake, CFA, CPA

We never know when unexpected trials will come. Perhaps you’re left wondering why and how these trials could be part of God’s sovereign plan. Back in 1978, Ron and Shelly Hamilton were teaching at Bob Jones University when Ron started to notice reading difficulties in his left eye. After a series of tests, they discovered that he had cancer in his eye. Little did Ron and Shelly know that Ron losing his eye would pave the way to an incredible lifelong ministry of music and song. While at church, the children started asking Ron what’s over his left eye, and he responded that it’s a patch. He took it a step further and told the children to call him Patch the Pirate. Fast forward 4o years later, Majesty Music has produced over 40 adventure series of Patch the Pirate. Out of this tragedy, Ron wrote this song, “Rejoice in the Lord” as a reminder of God’s sovereignty. 

Shelly’s story about her husband Ron’s cancer and turning these trials into something beyond their wildest dreams is a humble reminder to trust in God’s bigger plan when the days are dark, scary, and lonely. We’ll be learning more from Shelly on several episodes of Intelligent Money Minute. We wanted to provide you with some background information before we dig deeper into financial related topics such as transitioning a family business, caring for a spouse in retirement, and much more.

If you haven’t subscribed to our podcasts, you can go to investedwithyou.com and choose whichever method you want to download them. While you are there, you can go to our blog page and subscribe so you can get our latest Intelligent Insights directly in your inbox.

Shelly Hamilton Bio

Shelly Hamilton, the daughter of Frank Garlock, married Ron Hamilton aka “Patch the Pirate” in 1975. They have managed Majesty Music and written sacred music for children and adults since they joined the ministry in 1978. Shelly currently ministers at Majesty Music as pianist, composer, arranger, and recording producer. In 2013, their son killed himself after years of struggle with mental health issues. The family’s public struggle and acknowledgement of mental health issues has reached people around the world. Most recently her family faces a new challenge: Ron Hamilton’s early onset of dementia. Her insight and music will encourage anyone facing the challenges of life.

In January 2018 Majesty Music announced their third generation of leadership. After years of waiting for God’s timing, Ron and Shelly transitioned the ministry over to their son-in-law Representative Adam Morgan and his wife, Ron and Shelly’s daughter, Megan.

Further episodes of 301 Moved Permanently

Further podcasts by Hans Blake, CFA, CPA

Website of Hans Blake, CFA, CPA