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Florence Jean Hampton, 89, of Bellefonte, passed away Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at her home. She was born in Houtzdale, Pa. on July 5, 1935. Jean was the daughter of William Z. and Hazel Frances (Kent) Helsel.
She was a graduate of Houtzdale Woodward Brisbin High School in 1953. She went on to nursing school and graduated from the Philipsburg State Hospital as an RN in 1956. A lifelong practicing nurse, she worked in various capacities including a small-town family practice, Obstetrics, Geriatric care and finally in the prison system retiring from the medical department at Rockview State Prison in 1998 after many years of service.
She was married to her husband Bob for 45 years and together they built their mobile home business in Avis and later became part-owners in Apex Modular Homes.
She is survived by her daughter, Amy Laubscher (Kenton) of Howard; her daughter-in-law, Theresa Hampton (Goldsboro N.C.); her grandchildren, Henry Hampton (Sacha), Heath Hampton (Tavia), Amanda Balevic (Dr. Steven Balevic), Catherine Hampton (Christopher Bonner), Alexandra Vichinsky (Alexander) and Lauren Laubscher (Jacob Buckland); great grandchildren, Alexander Hampton, Isabelle Hampton, Taylor Hampton, David Balevic, Lillian Balevic, Jude Vichinsky and Cade Vichinsky, as well as her beloved nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Bob Hampton; her son, Rob Hampton and brothers, Bill Helsel and Dr. Charles Helsel.
Jean was an accomplished musician playing the piano and organ impressively since childhood. She was an active member of the Eastern Star, Jersey Shore chapter for many years, serving in many roles within the organization. She was an active member of Faith United Methodist Church since her move to Bellefonte. Over the years she has remained an active member of United Women of Faith and was committed to women and children's charities. For many years she led seniors from the church in a group "Young at Heart" and enjoyed arranging meals and various speakers from the community to present educational content to the senior population. She enjoyed traveling and enjoyed organizing numerous bus trips a year for senior citizens from the community.
She was very happy in her community at Graystone in Bellefonte and enjoyed many friendships there. Jean loved life, loved her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by all of those who knew her and loved her back.
Friends and family will be received on Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, from 10 – 11 a.m., at Faith United Methodist Church, 512 Hughes Street, Bellefonte. A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m., at the church, with Rev. Andrew Morgan officiating. Burial services will be private at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Wetzler Funeral Service, Inc. in Bellefonte.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Jean to Faith United Methodist Church, 512 Hughes Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.wetzlerfuneralhome.com