Dorothy Laura Hampton

Dorothy Laura (""Dodie"") Hampton, a resident of Aurora, Colorado, died on Monday, August 27. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clyde Robert Hampton. She is survived by her daughter, Dorothy Norma (""Dee""), her brother, Donn Medd Gaebelein, of Rock Stream, New York, her sister, Gretchen Gaebelein Hull, of Hightstown, N.J., and numerous loving and compassionate nieces and nephews. Dodie was born in Brooklyn, NY, on June 17, 1927. Her father, the late Dr. Frank E. Gaebelein, was Headmaster of The Stony Brook School. In 1948 she graduated from Barnard College with honors, including Phi Beta Kappa, and then did one year of post-graduate study at Columbia University. After her marriage to Clyde on June 3, 1949, they made their permanent home in Colorado. For many years the Hamptons were active in the National Association for Retarded Children. They were co-founders of the Colorado Association for Retarded Children, as well as effective advocates for all persons with cognitive disabilities. In 1963 their daughter Dee was chosen as Poster Child for the National Association for Retarded Children and honored in ceremonies at the office of the Governor of Colorado and later by President Lyndon B. Johnson at the Oval Office in the White House. In the 1970s, the Hamptons sponsored refugees fleeing from the conflict in Viet Nam, including one refugee who became a member of their extended family. Dodie was a dedicated Christian and an active church member, with a special interest in missions. She was elected one of the first woman elders at Cherry Creek Evangelical Presbyterian Church and served on the Ministerial Relations Committee of the Presbytery of the West. Together with her husband, Clyde, she was a longtime supporter of Denver Seminary. Among her many interests was a love of animals, including breeding Dachshunds and Jack Russell Terriers. She was also an accomplished equestrienne and as a hobby challenged herself to learn the art of show jumping. Contributions in her memory may be made to Envision: Creative Support for People with Developmental Disabilities (PO Box 200069, Evans, CO 80620) or Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church. There will be a private interment. Please share you memories of Dorothy and condolences with her family by selecting the ""Sign Guestbook"" link below.