Dena Hampton
06/14/1951 - 02/07/2025
With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the homegoing of Dena A. Hampton, affectionately known as Big Mama by her beloved grandchildren, family, and close loved ones. Soft-spoken yet powerful in her faith, Dena was a beacon of light, dedicating her life to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ and serving others with grace, compassion, and an unwavering devotion to her faith.
Born on June 14, 1951, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Marcus Hampton and Dorothy Caruthers, Dena was raised in a household that instilled strong values of service, love, and faith. She received her formal education in the Indianapolis Public School System and was a proud graduate of Shortridge High School, Class of 1969. From an early age, she committed her life to Christ under the pastorate of the late Rev. H.L. Burton at Phillips Temple CME Church, where she became a devoted and active member.
Dena's love for people was evident in everything she did. She had a heart for service and followed in her mother's footsteps by dedicating her life to helping others. Whether through ministry, her career, or personal acts of kindness, she touched countless lives. She was deeply involved in her church, particularly in Children and Youth Ministries, where she poured her time, energy, and love into mentoring and encouraging young people. She played a pivotal role in the Christian Youth Fellowship (CYF) and was a staunch supporter of youth-centered programs such as the Drama Ministry at Phillips Temple, the Grandsteppers Drill Team, and the Anointed Expressions of Christ Dance Ministry, founded by her daughter Toshia.
Never one to let distance hinder her support, Dena traveled across the country to cheer on and uplift the young people she cherished so dearly.
Beyond her ministry work, Dena was also a highly talented and beloved beautician, working for over 30 years to provide stylish and elegant hairstyles. She began her career at Paris Beauty Salon, later working at Kim Salon, before retiring in October 2019. Her gifted hands not only created beauty but also instilled confidence and joy in the many clients she served.
Dena had a nurturing spirit, one that extended into her professional and personal life. She worked alongside her daughter Toshia at Auntie's Future Leaders Daycare for 10 years, helping to shape young minds with the same love and guidance she gave to her own children and grandchildren. Later, she found joy in serving the elderly community as a dedicated employee of Harrison Retirement Center, where she worked for nearly a decade. Her presence brought warmth and comfort to both residents and staff, and she formed many meaningful connections during her time there.
A woman of many talents, Big Mama was known for her incredible skills in the kitchen. Her famous chili and delicious Punch Bowl Cake were legendary, bringing family and friends together over meals filled with love and laughter. She cherished time with her family, creating priceless memories through song, dance, and games, especially during the holidays or any time loved ones gathered.
Dena was also a proud member of the renowned Hampton Family of Jazz Musicians, and her deep love for music, creativity, and artistic expression was passed down through generations, inspiring her children and grandchildren to carry on the family's legacy of talent.
Dena was passionate about giving back to the community, particularly in feeding those in need. Every 2nd Saturday of the month, she joined the Hampton Family Ministry in serving meals to the less fortunate, embodying the true essence of selflessness and generosity.
A Life of Love and Legacy
Dena was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Dorothy Caruthers and Marcus Hampton, and her brother, Marcus Hampton JR ,Danzon Hampton.
She leaves behind a rich legacy of love, faith, and family, cherished by her siblings: Kern Hampton, Charisse Hampton, Her devoted children: Toshia Howard (Richard), Shannon Conway (Bryant), Larry Woodard (Kiasha), Lil' Larry Woodard, whom she raised as her own Her treasured grandchildren: Tatiauna Matthews, LaDena Matthews, Joshua Matthews (Dequana), Shardae Gilbert, Brianna Lewis, Darious Conway, Bonus grandchildren: DeVontae, Drona Conway, Ariana, Omar, and She also leaves behind a host of extended family, nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and her special friend, Bryant Washington.
Dena A. Hampton's love, wisdom, and kindness will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched. She lived a life that exemplified faith, service, and devotion to family, and while she will be deeply missed, her spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who knew her.
"Her children arise and call her blessed..." - Proverbs 31:28
Church
Phillips Temple C.M.E. Church
210 East 34th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Funeral Service
Phillips Temple C.M.E. Church
210 East 34th Street
Indianapolis, IN 46205