Carmella F. Crist "Frankie", made the transition to eternal life on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2008, after a sudden illness.

Carmella was born in Centerville on Feb. 28, 1919.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lt. Col. Dwight E. Crist, U.S.A.F.(Ret.); parents, Gius­eppe and Giovanna Frank, who immigrated from Sicily through Ellis Island, and six brothers and sisters.

Carmella and her siblings were first generation Ameri­cans. Carmella is survived by her daughter, Marilyn L. Crist; sons, Sam R. Crist, Dr. Douglas M. Crist and wife, Debra A. Werner; and nephew, Sam Frank of Unionville, Mo.

After raising three children, Carmella enjoyed a career spanning 20 years in Fashion sales at Queens Closet and then Nelda's Fashions. Many esteemed individuals in Albuquerque, N.M., sought her fashion expertise. In the last years she enjoyed time with family and friends. She was a woman of great inner strength and faith, with total devotion to her family. Her loveliness and kindness were recognized by those who she met and those who knew her. The passing of this petite and gentle wo­man has left an immense emptiness in those who loved her.

A Rosary was recited on Friday, Jan. 4, at French Mortuary, Wyoming Blvd. Chapel in Albuquerque, N.M.

A Mass was celebrated on Saturday, Jan. 5, at 10 a.m., at Gate of Heaven Mausoleum Chapel, 7999 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Albuquerque, N.M. Interment followed at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.