Bertha Solomon

SOLOMON, BERTHA RICHAge 86, died October 25, 2012 at her home on Albuquerque, NM. The youngest of three children born to Jonathan and Pearl Rich in Devol, OK, Bertha grew up on the farm, in a home full of love. Though devoted to both her parents, she was admittedly something of a "daddy's girl." She accepted Christ as her Savior as a child and remained committed to Him all her life. Bertha excelled in sports and her studies at school, playing basketball and softball and serving as valedictorian of her class at Union Valley High School. She also played the piano, mostly self-taught. She worked for the telephone company in nearby Wichita Falls, Texas, after graduation until her fiancé, Roy Solomon, returned home from duty following World War II. They married on January 20, 1945 at her parents' home. The newlyweds knew farm life was not for them, and after short stints in oil field work in southern Texas and New Mexico, they found a home in booming Farmington, New Mexico, where they lived for 50 years. Both worked for El Paso Natural Gas Company, Roy for more than 30 years and Bertha for nearly 20 years. They raised two sons, Brian and Gary, whom they tutored, coached and encouraged in every aspect of life. Bertha, in particular, provided them with a spiritual foundation important for successful living. She had a similar impact on her grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Upon Roy's death in 2001, Bertha relocated to Albuquerque. The move not only brought her closer to family but also introduced her to new neighbors and friends. She thrived on volunteering at church and attending senior citizens activities. As late as her early 80's she tutored elementary school children in reading, taught a Bible study class and worked in the office at Del Norte Baptist Church one afternoon a week. Bertha is survived by her sons; beloved daughters-in-law, Kathy and Marsha; grandchildren, Gen Canada and Jason Solomon and their spouses, Roy and Jennifer; six great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild. One of the last things Bertha told her pastor was, "In my Memorial service, I just want the Lord's Name to be lifted up." May it be so. Friends may visit 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Monday, October 29, 2012 at French - Lomas. A Private Graveside Service will be held at Sunset Memorial Park, 924 Menaul Blvd NE. A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, October 30, 2012, 2:00 p.m. at Del Norte Baptist Church, 5800 Montgomery Boulevard NE.