Anna Dial

Anna Wood Perkins Dial, 96, of Aztec, passed away Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2017, in Farmington. She was born Dec. 27, 1920, at the family home in in Cedar Point, N.M. - just north of Aztec.

Anna was the youngest daughter in a large, loving family of six boys and three girls. Her family were pioneers who came to New Mexico in covered wagons to escape the turmoil of cattle rustlers in Texas. Her family was not unique among many settlers as they were never wealthy in money, but always wealthy in the love of God, love of Family, and working to make things better. Anna’s first job was plucking chickens as a six-year-old to bring home money for the family. She cared for nieces and nephews when she was barely 10 years old; she learned (and passed on the lesson to her family) of personal responsibility. She graduated from Aztec High School in 1938, having been active in the Girls Glee Club.

After high school, Anna married George T. Perkins. Anna worked at Animas (Basin) Power and Light, and helped at Aztec Theater, where George and Anna made many wonderful memories, including the birth of their two children. Anna was always industrious and was an excellent gardener, seamstress and home maker for her family. Anna later went to work at Mountain Bell (AT&T), where she worked until her retirement in 1985.

Anna was preceded in death by George, her husband of 40 years. After retirement, Anna reconnected with her high school sweetheart, Edward W. Dial. They were married in Farmington at Emmanuel Baptist Church, and spent many happy years together traveling, golfing, and hosting family get togethers.

Anna was preceded in death by Ed, her husband of 30 years. She is survived by her two children, Gary (Shari) Perkins of Aztec, Celeste Perkins of Farmington; her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who always knew the love of ‘Grammie’ and ‘Aunt Anna.’  Throughout Anna’s life, her family was central to her life. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren will always remember family meals with her specialties of chili rellenos and green beans; they will always hold dear her family Christmas with homemade divinity, fudge and caramels. During her last years, Anna did not slow down from the industry that was part of her very makeup. During her 95th year she made over 80 flannel blankets that she lovingly gave to children, grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews - she simply said: “I wanted to be able to give something to my family.”  In addition to her husbands, Anna was preceded in death by her parents, William A. Wood and Mary Annie Wood; her brothers and sisters, her cousins that were raised with her, and two sweet grandchildren, Lori and Chris. Rest in peace dear one.

Viewing will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 28 at First Baptist Church of Aztec, 700 Navajo Ave. A funeral service for Anna to follow at 10 a.m. at the church and interment will be at Aztec Cemetery, 700 Chamisa Ave. in Aztec.

In lieu of flowers please make contributions to Cancer Society of America.

Funeral arrangements are with Farmington Funeral Home, 2111 W. Apache St., 505-325-2211. Those who wish to express condolences may do so at farmingtonfuneral.com.