Fern LaVone Hopson Drysdale, 78, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away on Sunday, September 23, 2012. She was born in Waurika, Oklahoma on November 26, 1933 to James and Vesta Louise Hopson. She is survived by her husband, Kent, of 62 years; son, Kent Drysdale III (Alison); daughters, Geri Didier (Louis) and Teri Skoglund (Erick); grandchildren, Lindsay, Blake, Paige, Brooke, and Austin; one great-grandchild, Hannah; and her Shih Tzu puppies, Abby, Jake, Hannah and Ju Ju. Fern is preceded in death by her parents, her sisters Maxine Blankenship, Nadine Weems, Bonnie Phillips, and brother, Jim Hopson. Fern's life centered on her family. She was a devoted wife to her husband Kent whom she met at Yuma High School, and later married. They began their life together shortly after he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. While in the Air Force, they enjoyed the "big city life" of Denver, Colorado and Fort Worth, Texas. Fern was very proud of working in the field of education for over 37 years. She retired from Arizona Western College after 25 years of service, the last 15 years spent as Director of Community Education. As she and Kent planned for retirement, they purchased a golf course lot in Lake Cushman, Washington, where they planned to build their summer retirement home. As time passed, they realized they wanted to be closer to their children and bought a home in Munds Park, Arizona. They truly enjoyed their summers "in the cool pines." Fern is a past member of the EI Centro Presbyterian Church, Junior Women's Club, and Yuma Zonta International. She volunteered at YRMC after her retirement. Fern's greatest and most important achievement was her three children, twin daughters, Teri and Geri, born on Christmas Day, and son Kent arrived on Mother's Day. Memorial donations in Fern's name may be made to The Humane Society of Yuma, or Hospice of Yuma. Private graveside service will be held for the family. We love you Mom and will forever miss you.