Elsie Hendricks

Elsie Martin Hamma Hendricks , age 95, passed away on March 23, 2026. Born on January 26, 1931, she was the daughter of the late Lester J. Hamma and Mary (née Arnst) Hamma Glennon Shear.

Elsie's life was defined early by resilience and determination. As a teenager, she battled polio, completing much of her schooling at home and through summer study during her junior and senior years. Through perseverance and her mother's help, she regained her ability to walk and graduated from Kingston High School at the age of 16.

After high school, Elsie was inspired by an encounter with a woman in uniform at the post office and chose to serve her country. She enlisted in the United States Army and proudly served in the Women's Army Corps (WAC) from 1949 to 1951, attaining the rank of Sergeant. During her service, she was stationed at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, where she assisted with public relations for the Blue Angels, and later at Fort Eustis, Virginia, working in Public Affairs. Her time in Pensacola held special significance, as it was the same location where her father had trained as an aircraft mechanic before deploying to France during World War I.

Following her military service, Elsie remained in the south and continued her work in public relations, including opportunities to work alongside individuals early in their careers, including a young Clint Eastwood. Later in life, her sense of duty to family brought her back to Kingston, where she returned to care for her mother, reflecting her loyalty and devotion.

Elsie remained active in her community and worked with the YWCA, while always supporting causes of equality and women's rights. She carried those values throughout her life, combining independence with a strong commitment to fairness and service.

Family was the center of Elsie's life. You knew she loved you, and you knew when she was upset with you. She was honest, passionate, and loyal, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Elsie was a proud member of the Kingston American Legion Post 150, which was founded in part in honor of her uncle, Aubrey Arnst, one of the Kingston men killed in action during World War I.

She was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth Hendricks; and her five siblings, Doris Hamma, Robert Hamma, Jeanne (née Hamma) Andrews Saylors, John Glennon, and Margaret (Peggy) (née Glennon) Marrelli.

She is survived by her husband's daughters, Karen (Gary) Jubie, Colleen (Peter) Fabiano, and Joanne Hendricks; and by their children, Kenneth (Laura) Jubie, Kyle (Rogina) Jubie, Korey (Carly) Jubie, Peter (Gabrielle) Fabiano, Mark Fabiano, and Sean (Shana) Fabiano. She is also survived by more than 20 nieces and nephews, and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Elsie lived a life defined by strength, service, and devotion—to her country, her community, and above all, her family. Her legacy is one of resilience, independence, and enduring love. She will be missed.

Services will be private.