Together again--Fern Upham and Earl Upham (11/11/1993). Virgie (Fern) Upham left this life peacefully on Thursday, August 1, 2013, at Handmaker Senior Community in Tucson, AZ. A long-time resident of Arizona, Fern was born on February 9, 1919, to Charles and Blanche Holt in Lead Hill, Arkansas. The Holts moved to Arizona because of declining health, and both passed away in the late 1920's. Fern and her sister Hester became residents of the Arizona Children's Home in Tucson. Their brother, Burr, was too old to be accepted into the orphanage, so he went on to live in several Southern Arizona towns where he could find work. Tough times during the Great Depression brought much anguish to families during this era. Fern remarked often about the kindness and attention that she was shown at the Children's Home. Fern was born into a musical family and continued with music lessons at the Children's Home. Fern and Hester were adopted in 1933 by Ernest and Anna Russell and lived with them on their sheep ranch in Wilcox, Arizona, until both girls went off to college. During her high school years in Wilcox, she accompanied many choral performances and went on to major in Piano at the University of Arizona. Fern was preceded in death by her loving husband of 54 years Earl; her brother, Burr; and by grandson, Ron Jr. Surviving family includes sister, Hester; children, Ron, Frances (husband, Laszlo), and Gary (wife, Diane); grandchildren, David (wife, Joanie), Angela, Jennifer (husband, Todd), Christie, Michael (wife, Missy), Andre, Daniel, Erica (husband, Trevor), and Seth; and great-grandchildren, Christopher, Calypso, Adam, Hanna, Haley, Kayleen, Karylin, Gavin, and Grant. Enjoying and being involved with family and her desert animals and plants were life-time passions. Fern and Earl owned and operated Upham's Nurseries for many years. They were founding members of the Old Pueblo Lapidary Club and charter members of Catalina Methodist Church in Tucsonp; and Fern was active for most of her life in Sigma Alpha lota (honorary music sorority). Both spent many years enjoying a number of different crafts, and Fern will be especially remembered for her famous prickly pear jelly. Her family celebrates Fern's 94 years and is thankful for her long life. She lived her life quietly and peacefully, surrounded by family, friends, and her beloved Arizona desert. There will be a Private Memorial Service for family. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Handmaker Foundation or to the charity of your choice. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, Dodge Chapel. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tucson/obituary.aspx?n=virgie-upham-fern&pid=166244180&fhid=2500#fbLoggedOut