John "J.P." Hammond, 21, of Dawsonville, died Dec. 6, 2012.

Born May 15, 1991, in Hendersonville, Tenn., Mr. Hammond was a 2009 graduate of Excellence Academy.

J.P. had played music since the age of 7 and was accomplished on many instruments.

A devoted son writer and performer, he composed the Alma Mater for Excellence Academy and enjoyed entertaining his family and friends with his talent in many musical styles.

An accomplished writer, he had had some of his works published.

J.P. faced many challenges in life, but his devotion to his love of Jesus Christ never diminished and he constantly shared his faith with others.

He was a member of Christ Fellowship Church.

Survivors include his mother, Meredith Gazaway Kirby of Dawsonville; father and stepmother, John P. "Johnny" and Lusi Hammond of Hendersonville, Tenn.; brother, Dakota Bays of Dawsonville; grandparents, Marshall and Gloria Gazaway of Gainesville; great-grandfather, Marcus Gazaway of Gainesville; various other relatives also survive.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Dec. 10 in the Bearden Funeral Home Chapel with the Revs. Don Allen, Ricky Stepp and Jeff Hughes officiating. Interment followed in Dawsonville Memorial Gardens.

Bearden Funeral Home of Dawsonville was in charge of the arrangements.