Kent Hamilton Named Southeastern Farmer of the Year at Expo

On October 17, 2025, Kent Hamilton, the CEO of Southern Valley Fruit and Vegetable, Inc., received the prestigious title of Southeastern Farmer of the Year during the annual Sunbelt Expo held in Moultrie, Georgia. The announcement, made at the Willie B. Withers Legislative Luncheon, was met with overwhelming applause and a standing ovation, highlighting the significance of Hamilton’s achievement for both his community and the agricultural sector.

A Triumphant Moment for Georgia Agriculture

This year’s Sunbelt Expo was particularly momentous as Georgia served as the Spotlight State, amplifying the honor of having one of its own recognized as the leading farmer in the Southeastern United States. Hamilton’s accolade represents a culmination of dedication and hard work in an industry that faces numerous challenges.

In his acceptance speech, Hamilton expressed profound gratitude, stating, “Wow! What an honor, y’all. What an honor and what an accomplishment.” He took a moment to reflect on his personal journey, sharing the story of his late brother, who inspired him to pursue farming. Hamilton revealed that they began their farming venture together in the mid-1980s, only to face a tragic loss due to a farming accident in 1987. “So, I want to dedicate this to him, to my older brother,” he said.

Gratitude and Reflection

Hamilton’s heartfelt remarks continued as he acknowledged the role of faith in his life and career. He thanked his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, attributing his success to divine guidance, stating, “It’s been 90% him and 10% me.” His appreciation extended beyond personal faith to his love for his country, thanking the military and those who sacrificed for freedom, allowing him to pursue his passion for farming.

He also paid tribute to his parents, highlighting the pivotal role they played in his journey. Hamilton noted that his father passed away in 1990, never witnessing the success of their farming operations. “But my mother, she was my longtime business partner,” he said, acknowledging her hard work in promoting Southern Valley Fruit and Vegetable.

Further expressing his appreciation, Hamilton recognized the unwavering support of his wife, Pam. “She’s always been the cheerleader in the background,” he said, emphasizing her encouragement during challenging times. He also thanked his children—Courtney, Austin, Kaylee, and Presley—for their sacrifices throughout the years.

In concluding his speech, Hamilton expressed gratitude to the entire team at Hamilton Growers and Southern Valley, recognizing that his success stems from a collective effort. He remarked, “It’s certainly a team effort for me to be standing here where I’m standing today.” He also thanked Chip Blalock, the executive director of the Sunbelt Expo, for organizing the Southeastern Farmer of the Year program, which he described as an amazing initiative.

With his acceptance of the award, Kent Hamilton not only celebrated personal achievement but also highlighted the resilience and dedication of the agricultural community in Georgia and beyond. His story continues to inspire many within the industry, showcasing the values of hard work, family, and community spirit that drive success in farming.