Gwen S. Hand

Gwen Hand, 79, a long-term Carlsbad resident went into eternal rest on Tuesday, January 31, 2012 surrounded by her loving husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Gwen was born July 12, 1932 in Oleste, Oklahoma. She moved to Carlsbad in 1937 and lived there throughout her life, graduating from Carlsbad High School in 1949. On July 23, 1948 Gwen married Berwyn F. Hand (Buddy) and they remained life partners for 63 years until her passing. Gwen is survived by her husband Berwyn Hand, sons Daryl W. Hand and wife Annelle of Tucson as well as Tommy Hand and wife Kim of Las Cruces. In addition five grandchildren, James Hand and wife Stacey of Tucson, Tim Hand and wife Thea of Las Cruces, as well as Amanda, Tanner, and Sami Hand of Las Cruces. Last but certainly not least were her two great-grandchildren , Ryan Maki of Las Cruces and Alexis Hand of Tucson. Gwen enjoyed many years of competitive contract bridge. Due to her consistent achievements, she earned the distinction of life master. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother who will be greatly missed and fondly remembered for all our remaining years. She was preceded in death by her father Gene Simpson in 1975 and mother Myrtle Simpson in 2006. Services are being held at 2:00 p.m. at the Emmanuel Primitive Baptist Church, 605 9th Street in Carlsbad, N.M. Burial will immediately follow at Carlsbad Cemetery. Services will be conducted by her husband and son, Elders Berwyn and Daryl Hand. Pallbearers are son Tommy, grandsons Tim, James and Tanner Hand, great-grandson Ryan Maki and family friend Mikey Roberts. Written at the request of her loving family by B.F. Hand, Gwen's husband and pastor of the Emmanuel Primitive Baptist Church. Condolences may be expressed at dentonwood.com.