Sue Hambelton, 79

Funeral services for Sue Hambelton,  79, of Gainesville, were held Oct. 20, 2025, at the Gainesville Church of Christ. Burial followed at Smith Chapel Cemetery. 

She died peacefully on Oct. 16. She was born on Jan. 12, 1946, in Wichita, Kansas, to Wayne and Necie Clark.

On April 7, 1963, Sue married the love of her life, Elmo Hambelton, and together they built a beautiful family filled with love, laughter and faith. Sue was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother whose life was centered around her family and her community.

A talented and passionate florist, Sue shared her creativity and love through her work at the flower shop in Gainesville. She found great joy in helping families celebrate life’s most meaningful moments—especially during the holidays, when she delighted in creating beautiful floral arrangements for every occasion. Known affectionately as “Mamma Sue,” she shone brightest when surrounded by her grandchildren and took great pride in her family’s love of team roping and the Western way of life.

Sue will be remembered for her generous heart, her love of family and the beauty she brought into the world through her flowers and her kindness. 

Sue is survived by her husband, Elmo Hambelton; her children: Terry Hambelton, Barry (Penny) Hambelton, Shawn (Deanna) Hambelton, all of Gainesville, and Anna (Mark) Schankowski; and her cherished grandchildren: Chandler, Shelby, Lexie, Alex, Dalye, Tenlye, and Sage. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Wayne and Necie Clark.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Ozarks, Mountain Home, Arkansas, in Sue’s memory. Arrangements are under the direction of Clinkingbeard Funeral Home, Gainesville.