Erma Sue Hansford Gable, a cherished matriarch and friend, passed away peacefully on January 10, 2024, at the age of 78 in Brandon, Florida. Born on September 15, 1945, in Altha, Florida,
Erma’s life was a testament to her enduring warmth and generosity.
Erma was the beloved daughter of the late Louie Hansford and Ida Mildred Beck Hansford. She
was predeceased by her devoted husband of fifty-four years, Merrill Gable, her brother Verlon
Hansford and her brother-in-law, Howard Driver. Her legacy continues through her loving son
Randy Gable and his wife Lori, her adored grandsons Noah and Codey Gable, her caring sisters
Martha Driver, Clara Rowland and her husband Buddy, Violet Williams and her husband Carl,
and Shirley Hansford as well as her loving brother, CW Hansford and his wife Connie. Erma
also leaves behind a sister-in-law Vickie Porter and her husband Johnny and a brother-in-law
Richard Gable and his wife Sallie, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family
members who will miss her dearly.
A proud graduate of Altha Public School in 1964, Erma dedicated more than thirty years of
service to the Florida State Hospital, where she retired as a shift supervisor in 1999. Her
commitment to her work was matched only by her dedication to her family and community.
Erma’s interests were a reflection of her love for life and people. In her earlier years, she found
joy in attending gospel sings with friends and tending to her flowers. As time passed, she
cherished long phone conversations with her closest friends and family, reading her Bible, and
participating in outings with the OWLS group in Lithia, FL. A longtime member of Sneads
Assembly of God, Erma’s faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she loved her church family
deeply. She also took great pleasure in supporting her grandchildren at their sporting events,
always their most enthusiastic fan.
Described by those who knew her as exceptionally kind and friendly, Erma’s presence was a
source of comfort and joy to all. Her smile, her laughter, and her unwavering support were gifts
to those fortunate enough to have known her.
Erma Sue Hansford Gable lived a life marked by love, service, and faith. Her memory will be
cherished, and her spirit will continue to inspire those she has left behind. As we bid farewell to
this remarkable woman, we celebrate the profound impact she made on the lives of so many.
Erma’s journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told for generations to come.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Central Time on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Sneads
Assembly of God with Dr. Juno Douglas officiating and McAlpin Funeral Home directing.
Interment will follow in Pope Cemetery in Sneads, Florida. The family will receive friends for
visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.
Flowers are welcomed and appreciated by the family or in lieu of flowers you may send a
contribution in Erma’s memory to Sneads Assembly of God Church, PO Box 89, Sneads, FL
32460
The family will be gathering at the home of her sister, Violet and Carl Williams 26326 NW
Jayjos Lane, Altha, FL 32421
Condolences may be submitted at www.mcalpinfuneralhome.com
