Wilma Lois Parsons

Wilma L. Parsons, of Wheat Ridge, passed away on September 30, 2017. She is survived by her husband, Verlin K. Parsons and daughter, Nancy L. (Parsons) Hauser of Littleton (Steve), eight (8) grandchildren, and six (6) great-grandchildren. Her son, Alan K. Parsons, preceded her in death in 2014. Wilma was born in Great Bend, Kansas on July 27, 1931, to parents Clifford R. and Helen M. (Bowyer) Crook. She graduated from high school in Manitou Springs, CO. She attended Bethany Nazarene College for three years completing her BME in 1956 at the University of Kansas. She continued her education at the University of Colorado and received her MM in Vocal Performance in 1978. She married Verlin K. Parsons on August 17, 1952 in Great Bend, Kansas. In 1956, Wilma and Verl moved to Arvada, CO where they began teaching in public schools and raised their children Alan and Nancy. They became members of the Lakewood Church of the Nazarene where Wilma became deeply involved in the music program for well over 50 years. She was a school teacher by education but brought her skills, class and sophistication to the church†™s music program by coordinating its music, directing the choir, and leading the worship music. She also served as Missionary President and in many other capacities. Wilma†™s life exuded musical talent and involvement. She was an extraordinary teacher; in public schools where she taught for many years, in churches where she conducted and taught church choirs, and in her piano and voice studio in her home. She had an incredible talent for inspiring young students to excellence. She was often asked to judge young musicians in their quest for ratings. Wilma was a member of two music sororities: Episilon Sigma and Sigma Alpha Iota. She was actively involved in the administration of these two groups as well as the musical aspect. She was initiated as a Professional Affiliate into Epsilon Sigma Chapter, CWC, in 1973. Wilma affiliated with Denver Alumnae Chapter in late 1973 and was an Active or Associate member for over 40 years. Wilma served as the Chapter Secretary from 1979-1981, was on the scholarship committee for many years and attended meetings and other events regularly including Central City Opera Day. She was the Usher†™s Chairman and Photography Co-Chairman for the 1997 National SAI Convention held in Denver. A soprano, Wilma performed with the SAI singers on two occasions, often sang for ritual ceremonies and for the SAI musicales in ensembles or as a soloist numerous times throughout the years. She often collaborated on unique programs and also performed in churches and other events in the metro area. Along with her teaching abilities, Wilma was an excellent performer. She was gifted with an ethereal soprano voice and had just the right touch of drama in her musical presentations. Throughout her 60+ years of musical performance in the Denver area, Wilma was an outstanding soloist, an indispensable member of many small groups and a joyful member of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra Chorus. Wilma and Verl were blessed to celebrate 65 years of marriage on August 17, 2017. They enjoyed traveling together throughout the US with spectacular vacations in Canada, Mexico, Europe, and the British Isles. Favorite memories include camping, family reunions, many days enjoying the Colorado Rockies, and many vacations and outings with family members and friends. Wilma loved her family, friends, her church, and her God, and had a real zest for life. She was kind, compassionate, and loyal. She always seemed to find those in need, and like an angel she had room under her wings for each one. She loved living, loved giving, and loved being involved in people†™s lives. Wilma never met a stranger. Wilma loved people and people loved her. She was most happy when she was singing to the Glory of God. She truly lived out the mandate to †œmake a joyful noise to the Lord.†� Many of us believe she is doing just that right now - and for eternity.†�