It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ella Mae Hamlett, who left us on January 26, 2025, at the age of 88. Ella was born on April 19, 1936, in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, but moved to Hobbs, New Mexico, when she was just six years old. She spent many wonderful years there before relocating to Lubbock, Texas, in 2013.
Ella was a dedicated operator for GTE, retiring in 1993, and she brought warmth and joy to everyone around her. On September 17, 1965, she married her beloved husband, Bobbie Hamlett in Hobbs, NM forming a wonderful family that included their son, Johnny Hammon (Danielle), and daughter, Donna Mendez (Jimmie). Ella was a proud grandmother to Jimmy and Toby Mendez, Steven and Chris Ross, Tamra Arguijo, Jason Hammon, Jerod Hamlin, Nikki Hammon, and Sarah Lane; fifteen great grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. who will forever carry her legacy in their hearts. She also leaves behind two sisters, Jo Gunther and Corrine Brawley.
Ella was preceded in death by her parents, John and Laura Mae (Harper) Morrow; brother, Earl Morrow and sister, Joyce Bolin.
Ella had a zest for life that was infectious. She enjoyed golf in her younger years and found joy in painting after retirement. Her love for music was evident as she played the piano, accordion, and auto-harp by ear, creating an atmosphere of melody and happiness in her home. A Texas Rangers fan through and through, you would often find her cheering on her favorite team.
Throughout her life, Ella was actively involved in her community, becoming a cherished member of the Lee County Road Riders Motorcycle Club and attending church at the Christian Center in Hobbs.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Lake Ridge Chapel and Memorial Designers followed by a reception. Please visit www.memorialdesigners.net for a service broadcasting schedule, floral purchasing, and an area to share stories of Mrs. Hamlett with her family.
Ella Mae Hamlett will be dearly missed but will forever remain in our hearts.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in memory of Ella Mae.
To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Ella Mae Hamlett, please visit our Tribute Store.