Wellesley N Hodgins

Wellesley Norbert Hodgins, a long time resident of Farmington, and member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, passed from this life on May 4, 2010.

Wellesley was preceded in death by his wife Mary, his brothers, Lionel and Clifford Hodgins and his sisters, Lola McMahon, Mildred McMahon and Phyllis Streng all of Wisconsin. Born May 4, 1918 in Gillett, Wisconsin, he was raised on a small dairy farm. His first employment was with the Norris Foundation for Boys in Mukwanago, Wisconsin where he worked as an assistant bookkeeper and part-time supervisor. In pursuit of his desire to become an educator, he moved west and attended the University of the Pacific where he earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Accepting employment with the BIA< his first position was as teacher and later principal teacher at the Peach Springs Day School where he worked for 13 years and where he met his future wife, Mary Wohlenberg whom he married August 29, 1957. Wellesley earned his Master of Arts degree from Northern Arizona University in 1966. Wellesley and Mary’s years of service to the BIA took them to San Carlos, Arizona, Hotevilla, Arizona and finally to Second Mesa, Arizona where Wellesley finished his career with the BIA retiring in 1982. The highlight of Wellesley’s career occurred during his years at the Second Mesa Day school. During his time there, the school was the first BIA elementary school to be fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. He often spoke of this accomplishment crediting the quality and commitment of his teaching staff. In addition to the quality of education provided, the school was well known for the yearly Christmas plays. Wellesley’s talents included music and he served as pianist for the Sunlight Baptist Mission where he was also the church treasurer and scout master for Boy Scout Troop 564. Following retirement, Mary and Wellesley moved to Farmington. Wellesley was active in the community volunteering time to Project Read and frequently teaching Bible class at Emmanuel Baptist Church. He was also active in the National Association of Retired Federal Employees. His hobbies included stamp collecting in addition to being an avid reader, and gardener. He is survived by Leroy Bruce Hodgins of Flagstaff, and David and Olivia Hodgins of Farmington and their daughter Jennifer Wilson and husband Robert of Aztec and a son Clifton Anderson of Kingman, Arizona. A memorial service is planned for 10:30 a.m., May 11, 2010 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 211 West 20th Street, Farmington. Condolences may be sent to David Hodgins, P.O. Box 592, Farmington 87499. Wellesley is in the care of Brewer, Lee & Larkin Funeral Home, 103 E. Ute Street, Farmington. (505) 325-8688