Ellen Dawn Hamilton, 80, of Sebastian, Florida, passed away peacefully in her home on September 20, 2025 with family at her bedside. She faced a 18-month cancer battle with courage and determination giving her meaningful time to make memories with her family that will be forever cherished.

Born on June 21, 1945, in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, Ellen lived in Lindley for many years before moving her family to Florida in the late 70’s. It was in Florida where she met and married her devoted husband of 20 years, Jerry Hamilton. They made their home in Sebastian, FL where family and friends were welcome and it was always 5 o’clock somewhere.
Ellen is survived by her loving husband, Jerry; her children, Beth Dion, Stephanie Crowley, and Tom Snyder; her sisters, Terry Ball, Laura Rhodes, and Linda VanEmmerik; her seven amazing grandchildren; and her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Stella and Leo Hammond and her sister, Kay Cary.

For more than 40 years, Ellen worked as a hairdresser, a career that matched her outgoing nature and love of meeting new people. She was also a long-time member of the Sebastian River Junior Woman’s Club where she gave her time, energy, and heart to the community she loved. Ellen loved her friends and family fiercely and her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her.
Just a few weeks before her passing, Ellen traveled to New York to spend 3 weeks of quality time with her family and lifelong friends. During that visit, a celebration in her honor was held at the home of her niece, Cindy Ball, who she always considered a third daughter. A small celebration of life is being planned with her local friends at the Italian American Club in Sebastian in the coming weeks.
Her ashes will be spread in the Sebastian River, a place she loved, and at the grave of her parents in Lindley, NY.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the VNA & Hospice Foundation Charitable Care – VNA & Hospice Foundation