Obituary of Elma Hamilton

Elma Louise Culpepper was born in Henry County, Tennessee on March 31, 1924. She was the daughter of the late Elmer Franklin and Effie Pearl (Taylor) Culpepper. At a young age, Elma would move to Southeastern, Michigan with her family. She would later meet and marry the love of her life, Thomas Hamilton on May 22, 1953 in Detroit, Michigan. Elma's union to Thomas brought the birth of nine children, and she would take her responsibilities as a homemaker very seriously. She was a very caring and whole hearted woman which shined through in the raising of her children throughout her lifetime. She made her family wonderful meals, and was known for her beef stew that was unable to be compared. Elma also made excellent cornbread and buttermilk. She had an extremely generous heart that seemed to multiply with the years. Elma loved children and often babysat little ones. Elma was a simple woman and enjoyed the small things. She loved the outdoors and especially all the vibrant flowers. Elma enjoyed listening to old time country and gospel music. She had a passion for volunteering to help people with handicaps and collected all sorts of items to donate to those who were in need. Elma Louise Hamilton, age 89 of Monroe, passed away at 3:50pm on Saturday, August 31, 2013 at Mercy Memorial Nursing Center. In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by a son: Kenneth Hamilton; two daughters: Joyce and Vicky; a sister: Jane Hoover; and two brothers: Herman Culpepper and James Culpepper. To cherish her memory, Elma leaves behind four daughters: Peggy Wasnic of Drummond Island, Karen (James) Sexton of Riverview, Barbara (William) Sexton of Alabama, and Gloria (John) Toppi of Southgate; two sons: Ronnie (Elizabeth) Hamilton of Newport and Bobby Hamilton of Ecorse; twelve grandchildren; twenty three great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; and three sisters: Bea (Ross) Parker Betty Joe Gerald, and Alice Reilly. Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 6:30pm on Thursday, September 5, 2013 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Her Life will follow at 6:30pm also at Merkle's with Jerry Brake officiating. A Private burial will take place on Friday, September 6 at St. Joseph Cemetery in Monroe. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or make a donation by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.