An abstract of his will, dated 20 May 1592 is provided. The will identifies him as 'James Hampstead [a variation of Olmsted] of Much Leighs, County Essex, yeoman' and is signed James Holmestede. The will mentions: 'Thomas Hampstead, my oldest son', 'Richard my second son', 'James Hampstead, my third son', 'Nicholas my fourth son', 'John my fifth son', 'my daughter Mabel', 'my daughter Elizabeth', and 'wife Jane'.