Ethel Mae Hampton

In loving memory, we celebrate the remarkable life of Ethel Mae Hampton, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished sister. Ethel entered eternal rest on September 8, 2025, after a life filled with love, family, and adventure.Born the youngest of fifteen siblings, Ethel grew up surrounded by the joy and bustle of a large family. She later built a beautiful family of her own with her beloved husband of 55 years, Cal Hampton Jr.. Together they raised four children—Perry, Kathleen, Chris, and Jason—who were the pride of her life. She was blessed to be “Grandma” to 12 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, all of whom adored her deeply.Ethel was known as the heart of her family’s kitchen. She had a gift for cooking and became the go-to source for soul food recipes, especially during the holidays. Her meals were more than food—they were traditions that nourished both body and soul.She embraced life with a spirit of adventure. During Cal’s 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Ethel traveled the world, making lifelong memories along the way. Later, she stood faithfully by his side through his second career in law enforcement, offering him strength, encouragement, and unwavering support.Ethel’s joyous spirit and enthusiasm for travel were contagious. She loved nothing more than planning the next trip, often with her children, and pulling Cal—and sometimes son-in-law Ben—along for the ride. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. Her dedication as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was evident in everything she did.We salute Ethel Mae Hampton—my wife, our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Rest in peace, my love. You will truly, truly be missed.