Beth Hamilton Gorman, 73 of Pittsburg, Kansas passed away Oct. 29, 2026, in Pittsburg, KS with family by her side. She was born Aug. 10, 1953, at High Point North Carolina, the daughter of Dr. Jim Tudder Hamilton and William Quackenbush (Lloyd) Hamilton. On Nov. 25, 1976, she was united in marriage to Dr. R. Scott Gorman in Cullowhee, North Carolina; he survives her of the home. She was the mother of John Hamilton Gorman and mother-in-law of Nury (Cartin) Gorman. She is also survived by her siblings Bill Hamilton of Wichita, KS and John Hamilton of Golden, CO.
Beth Gorman lived a life defined by determination, curiosity, accomplishment, and genuine friendships. Born in High Point, North Carolina, she later called Hickory, Cullowhee, and Raleigh, North Carolina; Athens and Rome, Georgia; and Pittsburg, Kansas, home.
Beth was loved by her family and many friends. She was married to Scott for 49 years, and theirs was a marriage built on deep love, devotion, and unwavering support for one another. They shared life's adventures, challenges, and joys, always being there for each other along the way. She was the best mom a son could ask for and supported her son John in all that he did. Beth was also the family's master planner and organizer, keeping the household running smoothly and making sure all the details were taken care of.
Beth and Nury shared a very special relationship. They enjoyed shopping at The Doggy Bag, taking walks with Murphy (who Beth considered the best dog ever), and spending hours talking about everything. Their time together was a source of great joy for both and will always remain cherished.
Beth also held a special place in her heart for The Moms (you know who you are!). Their friendship, love, and support have meant more to Beth than words can express. The family is incredibly grateful for their kindness, generosity, and continued support during this difficult time.
Beth was an accomplished scholar and athlete. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and a master's degree in Education Administration from Western Carolina University. In high school, she was the number one ranked female tennis player her junior and senior years in the state of North Carolina. At the collegiate level, she distinguished herself as the number one women's tennis player at both the University of North Carolina and the University of Georgia.
Her love of athletics and education continued throughout her professional career. Beth served as Athletic Director and Head Women's Tennis Coach at Peace College. She later served as Women's Housing Director and Tennis Coach at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. While living in Pittsburg, Kansas, she served as Assistant Director of Continuing Studies at Pittsburg State University and worked at Frank Layden Elementary, where as a reading specialist, she developed many valued friendships among the faculty and staff.
Beth continued to challenge herself athletically throughout her life. She trained consistently and competed in countless 5K and 10K races, winning many along the way. In more recent years, she became a USAT ranked triathlete, completing many sprint and olympic distance triathlons. She frequently won her age division, often finishing ahead of many competitors in younger age divisions. Even while battling illness, Beth continued to walk, run, bike, swim and lift at the absolute limits of her capability, embodying the determination, resilience, and competitive spirit that had always defined her. She held her triathlon training partners in high regard, whose friendship, encouragement, and support meant so much to her. She loved them all dearly.
Beth was an avid reader with an inquisitive mind and an endless curiosity about the world. She enjoyed reading about philosophy, psychology, science, and religion, as well as getting lost in a good work of fiction. She was always interested in learning, asking questions, and understanding the world around her.
Beth was someone people turned to when they needed advice, knowing they would always get an honest answer. She never hesitated to tell someone what they needed to hear, even if it wasn't necessarily what they wanted to hear. Since her passing, many of John's friends have reached out to share stories of how Beth influenced their lives and how much they valued her guidance. Beth's honesty, good judgment, and willingness to speak her mind were qualities that endeared her to so many and made her truly special.
Beth will be remembered for her honesty, intellectual curiosity, competitive spirit, and, most importantly, the family and friendships she cherished. She accomplished many things, but it was the people she loved and the connections she made that meant the most to her.
She is deeply missed by her family and the many friends whose lives she touched.
No attendant services are planned. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com. Memorials may be left to the Pittsburg YMCA, these may be left at or mailed to the funeral home. Donations to the Doggy Bag, in Pittsburg, KS, would also be appreciated. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Bath-Naylor Funeral Home, Pittsburg Kansas.
