Aug 15, 2018

Alma Jean Holden Salsberry was granted her butterfly wings to fly with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Monday, August 13, 2018.

Her final moments of life on Earth were spent with loved ones by her side at her family’s peaceful country home in Beeville, Texas. She touched the lives of many throughout her almost 81 years and blessed her family, being the amazing matriarch she was.

Alma’s memorable life started in McDonald, October 2, 1937, with her mother Giulia and her father Claude, as the last born of eight siblings, delivered by her great-grandmother just as her other seven siblings. She attended Washington High School and graduated in 1955.

At the age of 19, Alma was blessed to meet her future husband of 61 years, Duane R. Salsberry. From their home state of Pennsylvania to their new home of Texas, they had no idea the future ahead of them, but each step they took they changed lives along the way.

Alma mothered four loving and amazing children with her husband Duane: son Brian married to Cindy, daughter Catherine, son Evan married to Blanca and son Forrest Sr. This rambunctious family of six has many stories to tell with laughter lasting hours, many of which had Alma’s witty input she was known for. She raised her kids to speak their mind and let their voices be known.

It was this strong will of Alma’s that pushed her through nursing school at the age of 50, proving, not only to herself, but to her family that you’re not too old for school, nor to follow your dream of taking your boss’s job. She walked the stage of Del Mar Community College, located in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1987. She graduated as a registered nurse that would make a name for herself in South Texas – she just didn’t know it yet.

Her medical career started at Western Center, later known as Western State. Alma pursued her passion for working with the special needs kids at this mental health facility. From there, her passion led her to Ada Wilson in 1982, and Alma remained there until that facility closed its doors. Even after the doors closed at Ada Wilson, she continued to do contractual work in the medical field ofMental Health and Mental Retardation simply because Alma didn’t understand the true definition of retirement.

Throughout her continuous medical career, Alma also helped raise five beautiful grandchildren: Michelle, Joseph Duane, Forrest Jr., Evan James and Alma Jean, as well as three precious great-grandkids, Abbigale, Harleigh and Kaleb.

Even while working long hours as a nurse, she found time to teach her growing family as much as she could. She was the glue that held her family together, mainly because she wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. From sharing her own family recipes in the kitchen to helping with several homework assignments, this woman did it all and didn’t complain one bit. She made sure her family enjoyed themselves all the while around her.

Alma took charge and made sure each year her family celebrated the holidays the old-fashioned way. From always cooking the Thanksgiving meal, to baking cookies with her family, her house was the place to be during the holidays.

Christmas was no exception, either. Alma made sure to spoil her family with gifts, as well as memories made in her living room each year. This strong woman took pride in her family and enjoyed their company all the years of her life, knowing she raised an incredible bunch, dysfunctional at times, but still the best family she could ask for.

Her final 15 months were made most special and comfortable with the help of Blanca. With Blanca coordinating with Selah Hospice, they made sure Alma was treated the way a queen deserved. The staff at Selah extended exceptional care, especially from director of nursing Karen, certified nursing assistants Tammy and Yolanda and social worker Sylvia.

Alma not only gained a provider in her final times, but she also gained a newly adopted granddaughter, Cierra Gonzales. These two went everywhere and did everything together as close friends would.

Her legacy will live on through the many family members and loved ones she touched through her marvelous walk of life. Fly with your Lord, Alma.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, August 16, in Seaside Funeral Home Chapel.

To share words of comfort with the family, visit www.seasidefuneral.com.