Elma Hammond

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Elma L. Hammond, age 94, of Joplin, passed away on Friday July 3, 2020, at Spring River Christian Village.

Elma was born on November 10, 1925 in Neck City, MO, the daughter of the late Walter and Sarah (McMullen) Busby.

She married Paul Johnson in 1941 and he preceded her in death in 1955. Elma was blessed with four children, raising them at times as a single mother. She was a fulltime caregiver to her father-in-law Homer McCoy, who she cared for dearly. She worked for Macy’s and Newman’s Department Stores. She also worked as the director of personnel for Montgomery Ward until its closing in 1996. She was a member of South Joplin Christian Church and College Heights Christian Church where she hosted small group in her home. 

Elma had a serving spirit. She was a volunteer at a Mercy Hospital, a member of the Pink Ladies and she delivered ‘Meals On Wheels’. She loved sewing and was a great cook. Her family was especially fond of her candy, cookies and sweets. Elma always had a smile and a great sense of humor. She will be greatly missed.

She married Sanford Hammond on September 16, 1989. He preceded her in death on October 1, 2004. She was also preceded in death by one son, John McCoy on January 16, 2015 and an infant son; four brothers, Walter “Gene” Busby, Larry Busby, Don Busby and Robert Busby; and one sister Marrita Burger.

She is survived by two daughters, Chris Black and husband Steve, Carl Jct., MO, and Susan Helms and husband Greg, Joplin; one son, Kenneth McCoy and wife Kimberly, Jacksonville, FL a daughter-in-law Debbie McCoy, Carl Jct., MO; grandchildren, Jeff Black, Kevin Black, Jason Black and Chevelle Black, Matthew McCoy, Jacob McCoy, Justin McCoy, Shannon Stark, Madison Carr, Marki Helms, and Hannah Woodard; twenty great-grandchildren and ten great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. The family would also like to express their appreciation to the nurses and staff of Spring River Christian Village for the care of Elma.

A private family graveside will be held to honor Elma and her family.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory.