Tehachapi News

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A special memorial service was celebrated at Golden Hills Elementary School on March 21, for Kindergarten teacher Dory Nelson, who passed away suddenly on Dec. 28, 2007.

A Magnolia tree was planted in memory of Mrs. Nelson, in the Kindergarten play area where it can grow, protect and blossom each year, along with the children she spent more than 15 years educating — and nurturing.

Former Golden Hills Principal and the district’s current Chief Administrator of Curriculum, Lisa Gilbert, remembered Mrs. Nelson’s devotion to her students, friends and family.

“Her personality was bigger than life,” said an emotional Principal Pat Thomas, before the Kindergarten classes sang a special song for the entire school, and Mrs. Nelson’s family, who gathered nearby.

Mrs. Nelson’s husband, Bill, brought his 6-foot plus frame down to the eye level of the young children, shaking hands and speaking to the Kindergartners as they each filed past, sharing smiles with the nice, big man who also loves and misses Mrs. Nelson.