Nancy Elizabeth (Hawkins) Riser, 85, of Wheeling, WV, passed away Saturday, December 3, 2022, in Good Shepherd Nursing Home, Wheeling.
Nancy was born June 25, 1937, in Wheeling, a daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (Fisher) Hawkins. She was a retired secretary for St. Vincent de Paul School, beloved by many students, families and staff; and was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish, where she served as a cantor for over 50 years. Her musical gifts touched many lives, singing numerous weddings, funerals and Sunday Masses.
In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her loving husband of 60 years, Robert Dale Riser, in 2019; a son-in-law, Terry Porter; a sister-in-law, Karen Hawkins; a sister and brother-in-law, Barbara and Mike Ballint; and a nephew, Bob Stocke.
Nancy is survived by her five children, Robert (Lori) Riser of California, MD, Diane (Daniel) Sullivan of East Bridgewater, MA, Joyce (Alan) Sonnefeld of Montgomery, TX, Carol (Pat) McCormick of Wheeling and Gwen Porter of Wheeling; a brother, Richard Hawkins of Valley Grove, WV; a sister, Linda (Charles) Stocke of Easton, MD; 12 grandchildren, Rachel and Samuel Riser, James, Michael , Jacob and David Sullivan, Meagan, Abby and Ben Sonnefeld, Neil (Shannon) McCormick, Colleen (Travis) Munn, and Noah Porter; two step-grandchildren, TJ and Stephanie Porter; a great-granddaughter, Keeley Paige McCormick; and several nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 pm, Thursday, at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Elm Grove Chapel, 154 Kruger Street, Wheeling, where a vigil service will be held at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am, Friday, December 9, 2022, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, with Rev. Cyprian C. Osuegbu as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Parish, 2244 Marshall Avenue, Wheeling, WV 26003, or online by clicking the link above.
To all the family – so sorry for your loss. Nancy was our next door neighbor when i was growing up. I babysat her children when I was in grade school. Nancy helped organize a baby shower for my first born. Nancy also visited my mom, Ann Moskitis, when she was at Good Shepard. Nancy kept an eye on my brother Joe who still lives at my parents house. I am grateful her kindness to me and my family. May she rest in peace. I will have a mass said for her soon. Sincerely, Marcie (Moskitis) Dove.
When I think of St. Vincent’s School…Nancy Riser stands out first and foremost as a friend to children and parents alike. A lovely lady and a beautiful voice in more ways than one. Rest in Peace Nancy.
Mrs Riser was my saving grace starting when I was in kindergarten all the way into my 20s. We shared many special occasions regarding choir and she’s the one who got my love for singing sparked.
May she rest in eternal loving peace!
so sorry for your loss. NANCY WAS A WONDERFUL LADY AND WILL BE MISSED. PRAYERS FOR ALL OF YOU
Masses during Holy Week were significantly enriched because of the adult choir of St Vincent’s Church. Nancy was a member of this choir – It was truly a gift to witness the amazing music bringing people in the pews to tears of sadness and JOY. Nancy was a large part of the healing power of music in our church for many many years. God Bless her and her family for sharing her wonderful talents with the rest of us.
She would walk out of church humming – keep humming Nancy!
Your humming brings JOY to others.
She was a ” tooth-puller” to my children…a welcome smile to all and most of all…my friend.
I will miss her always.
Nancy was truly a kind and caring person, who always seemed to be smiling. She was the secretary at St. Vincent’s when my daughter was there and made all us mothers helping out feel welcome. Will certainly remember her beautiful voice singing at Mass and looking so utterly joyful while doing so. May she rest in peace.
Joyce and family, I’m so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. I have so many wonderful memories of her from being at your house, going to ball games, and attending St Vincent’s. I remember her making us Macaroni and Cheese and me telling my mom she needed to get that recipe that it was the best ever!!! And, so many fond memories of her singing at mass and working at St Vincent’s. As someone else mentioned, she made the trips to the office so welcoming even the time we were found guilty as charged. Your mom was a terrific lady who will be missed by many. Hugs to all of you and prayers for comfort.
Nancy was such a wonderful person. She was the secretary at St. Vincent’s when both of my children were in school. Everyone loved Nancy and her beautiful voice. May she RIP 🙏🏻
I was so saddened to hear about Mrs. Riser’s passing. During my years as a student at St Vincent’s, she was always so kind and caring and made visits to the office (for whatever reason) so welcoming. When I think of my time at St. Vincent’s, Mrs. Riser always comes to mind as part of my memories. Her voice was so beautiful and unforgettable as a cantor. I always enjoyed when she sang at weekend Mass. Sending condolences and saying prayers for her family during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Mrs. Riser.