Elsie Jeane Magill Ham

Elsie Jeane Magill Ham lived a life shaped by curiosity, conversation, literature, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Born on July 25, 1929, in Lexington, Kentucky, Elsie carried her Southern roots with her throughout her life—especially her enduring love of the Kentucky Derby, horse racing, and gathering family and friends to celebrate life’s occasions.

Raised by her parents, Wilbur “Tubby” Magill and Margueritte Hensley Magill, Elsie grew up in a family that valued education, community involvement, and the arts. Her father was a nationally respected horticulturist at the University of Kentucky, and her mother was a teacher, church leader, and gifted hostess whose warmth and energy helped shape Elsie’s own generous spirit. Some of Elsie’s happiest childhood memories centered on the Arcadia Junior Theatre, where her father built a stage in the family backyard and her mother directed productions that drew neighbors from throughout the community. Along with her younger sister, Peggy, Elsie often starred in the performances, enjoying a childhood rich in family, friendship, storytelling, and a sense of belonging.

Elsie earned her undergraduate degree in English from Wheaton College, where she met Francis Gerald “Jerry” Ham while they both worked at the Stupe Cafe. Their friendship grew into a loving partnership grounded in education, music, travel, spirited conversation, and family life. They were married on June 11, 1953. Elsie later completed a master’s degree in English at the University of Kentucky.

Together they welcomed four children: Anne, Bob, Carolyn, and Judy. In January 1964, the family moved to Madison, Wisconsin, when Jerry was named State Archivist of Wisconsin. Madison became their longtime home, filled with books, music, and lively conversation.

A gifted teacher and lifelong lover of words, Elsie shared her enthusiasm for language and learning with students, friends, and family. Before becoming a full-time mother, she taught English in Kentucky and New York. Years later, at West High School, she established a student-led tutoring program that paired older students with younger classmates. Students affectionately nicknamed her “Ham and Cheese,” a title she accepted with characteristic good humor. She later joined the staff of the University of Wisconsin Extension as an editor, where she developed “Attack on Grammar,” a correspondence course designed to help high school students master their English requirements. Her devotion to the written word was well known at home, too: Jerry once dedicated a book to Elsie, calling her his “Eternal Grammarian.”

In the early 1970s, Elsie and Jerry purchased a hobby farm near Wauzeka, Wisconsin, in the heart of the Driftless region. They named it Wild Oats Farm, and it became one of the great joys of their lives—a peaceful retreat where Elsie could often be found watching birds from her rocking chair near the kitchen window, delighting in the bluebirds, cardinals, and countless other visitors to her feeders.

Elsie believed strongly in bringing people together. Alongside a close friend, she organized conversational English classes for the spouses of international students, welcoming women from around the world into her home and forming friendships that lasted decades. A founding member of the University League Book Critics group, she cherished the deep discussions and camaraderie of the circle for more than fifty years. Folk dancing was another beloved part of Elsie’s life, bringing lasting friendships and a community built around music, movement, and fellowship.

Elsie read widely, voted faithfully, and remained deeply engaged with the world. She cared profoundly about education, women’s rights, social justice, public service, and civic engagement. Family members knew that any visit might include a spirited exchange of ideas, a book recommendation, or a thoughtful question that lingered long after the conversation ended. 

Friends and family will remember her quick wit, sharp mind, hospitality, and the way she made people feel genuinely welcome. Most of all, Elsie was kind. In her later years at Attic Angels, her strong spirit, sense of humor, and unmistakable personality continued to shine through.

Elsie was preceded in death by her beloved husband and partner of many decades, Francis Gerald “Jerry” Ham; her son, Robert “Bob” Ham; and her dear sister, Peggy Lacy.

She leaves behind her daughters, Anne Hernandez, Carolyn Ham, and Judy Ham; grandchildren Michael and Kristen Hernandez, Cary Walters, Tim and Jamie Hernandez, Brian and Jasmine Vargas-Hernandez, Scott Beauchamp, Benjamin Burton, and Joseph Hedin; and great-grandchildren Rylan, Landon, Adam, Cade, Eli, and Mara.

Elsie’s family is deeply grateful to the caregivers and staff at Attic Angels, especially Janine, for the kindness, friendship, and compassionate care they provided over the years. They are also especially grateful to Vicki, whose devoted friendship and presence brought companionship and joy to Elsie’s days. The family extends heartfelt thanks as well to Samantha and the team at Agrace Hospice Care for their extraordinary compassion, guidance, and support.

A celebration of Elsie’s life will be held in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of your choice, or to organizations Elsie supported throughout her life, such as Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin or the Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance.

Her family would be honored if those wishing to remember Elsie might do so by raising a glass—perhaps even a mint julep—in her honor on Derby Day.