Frances Hawk Nelson

Frances Hawk Nelson passed away on July 1, 2015, one day after her 102nd birthday. She was born in Carlsbad, New Mexico on June 30, 1913 to Rev. and Mrs. J. Rush Goodloe. Her grandfather, husband and son were Methodist ministers serving in Tennessee, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, James Hawk and second husband, Wiley Nelson; her brothers, Raymond Goodloe, Victor Crowell and Woodrow Hardy. She was also preceded in death by her niece, Ann McGuire. Frances is survived by her son, Rev. Jim Hawk and his wife, Jean; grandchildren, Christopher Hawk and his wife, Genevieve, Michael Hawk and Stacey Hawk. She is is also survived by four great-grandchildren, Tristan Hawk, Skylar Hawk, Kaden Foote and Serea Hawk. In addition, she is survived by a sister-in-law, Margaret Hawk; brother-in-law Frank Hawk; son-in-law, Ray Nelson and his wife, Barbara; and a daughter-in-law, Marie Stewart and her husband, John. Last, she is survived by many nieces, nephews and their children. Frances graduated from the University of Oklahoma with bachelor's and master's degrees in piano and organ. Music was one of her great loves, particularly classical music and the music of the church. She served as church organist in several churches over the years. She also taught students to play both the organ and piano. Her love for the church was evidenced by her roles as church organist, accompanist, directing many children's choirs and developing a program for children which combined music, worship and drama. She taught many adult classes and was active in United Methodist Women. Frances' love of family was profound. She cherished each of her grandchildren, making their Christmas stockings and carving each child's state bird out of wood; and wood carving became a hobby at which she excelled. She was a member of the Rio Grande Woodcarvers of New Mexico, and she specialized in busts of cowboys, Mississippi gamblers, Santa Clauses and clowns. Her carvings won several prizes from the annual New Mexico State Fair. Frances was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. She was a faithful servant of God and his son, Jesus Christ. She has given her family so many wonderful memories. She has left her mark in this world and is already making a new one in heaven. Very special thanks to the Ambercare Hospice staff, Jessica, Becky, David, Stacy, and Jennifer for the sensitive, loving assistance they provided to Frances and the family. A Celebration of Frances' Life is scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2015, 11:00 a.m. at Central United Methodist Church, 201 University Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106. Her service will be conducted by senior pastor Rev. Scott Sharp and her son, Rev. Jim Hawk. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made to the Central United Methodist Church Choral Music Program.