Elsie M Hampton, 98, a lifelong resident of Bowling Green passed away July 9, 2023 at Wood Haven Care Center. She was the oldest of nine children born to Earl and Ruth (Grover) Phillips.
Upon her graduation from Troy -Luckey High School in 1943, she went to work at Willy’s Overland, participating in the production of parachute parts for the war effort. This began her career in heartfelt service to family and community.
She and her of 37 years husband Rollie, were instrumental in the founding of Wood Lane School. Together along with several other families with M.R. children they cleaned and prepared space for the initial school, raised funds through bazaars, chicken dinners, and other means. They were the original “Uber” drivers for students and continued their efforts and support for over 30 years.
Elsie also held a variety of jobs in the service industry including: H.J. Heinz, Thelma’s Restaurant, Kroger and K- Mart. She had a quick smile and kind word for everyone. She enjoyed dancing, bowling, card club as well as spending winters in Florida with her special friend David Martin.
She is survived by her daughter, Sandra Berlin; grandchildren: Amy (Carl) Drees of Defiance, OH; Laura Berlin of Tijeras, NM; Eric Berlin (Julia Henderson) of Lorain, OH; 8 great grandchildren; and 3 sisters: Carla Swartz, Mary Lou Hernacki; and Judy Daniels. She was preceded in death by her husband Rollie; son Larry Earl; son-in-law Von and 5 siblings.
Contribution in her honor may be gifted to Wood Lane Schools.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 from 4:00 – 6:00 pm at Deck-Hanneman Funeral Home, 1460 W. Wooster Street, Bowling Green, Ohio. Elsie’s funeral service will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 10:00 am at the funeral home. Burial will immediately follow at Union Hill Cemetery.
Online condolences as well as fond memories may be shared with Elsie’s family by visiting www.hannemanfuneralhomes.com.
