08/26/2026
Miriam Evangeline Nolan Welker, 93, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2026, in Temple, Texas surrounded by the love and presence of family and friends.
Born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 26, 1933, Miriam was raised by her parents, William Cassius Nolan and Genevieve Catherine Cypher Nolan, on a farm near Butler, Pennsylvania. Those early years shaped her lifelong appreciation for learning, music, family, and hard work.
Music has always been an important piece of Miriam’s life. In her youth, she learned to read music and play several instruments. After graduating from Butler High School in 1950 as an honor student active in band and orchestra, she began studying music at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh.
While at Duquesne, Miriam met fellow music student Arthur Melvin Welker. They were married on August 8, 1953, beginning a partnership that would span more than five decades. Together they raised four sons: Paul, Eric, Ralph, and Grant.
In 1964, Miriam and Art moved their young family to Portales, New Mexico, where they built a life centered on family, education, music, and service. After devoting herself to raising their sons, Miriam returned to Eastern New Mexico University, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees. She later taught remedial reading at ENMU, helping countless students gain confidence in their ability to learn. Even after retiring, her love of teaching drew her back, and she eventually retired a second time from the university.
Throughout her life, Miriam found joy in creating beauty and serving others. She loved baking, crocheting stuffed animals and potholders, painting ceramics, reading, and sharing music. She was a member of the historical “Pink Lady” volunteer auxiliary group at Roosevelt General Hospital in Portales, New Mexico.
Miriam was also deeply involved in her Portales community. She volunteered with the Portales Senior Citizens organization, where she became active in the life of the Senior Center and eventually served as its president. She was particularly involved with the ceramics program, overseeing the kiln and purchasing molds for the projects created by senior citizens. She helped organize community events and fundraisers, such as the annual Chili Cook-off and the community carnival. She was always looking for ways for the Senior Center to contribute to and connect with the wider Portales community.
Family remained at the center of Miriam's world. Summer family trips, and there were many across the entire United States, created treasured memories for her and her children as they were growing up. Miriam and Art continued their adventures together, which included many trips to Laughlin and Las Vegas, Nevada. In final retirement (1989), a former student of Art, enticed them to come play with the orchestra on a cruise ship bound to Bermuda. They were hooked and developed a love for cruising the world. They traveled on 31 cruises to destinations throughout North America, the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and beyond.
Miriam and Art shared a lifelong love of bridge. What began as social bridge in Pennsylvania grew into an active involvement in duplicate bridge after moving to New Mexico. Together they played in local clubs, directed tournaments, traveled to regional competitions, and became active members of the American Contract Bridge League. Through bridge, they formed lasting friendships and shared their love of the game with their family.
Those who knew Miriam will remember her warm laughter, generous spirit, and gift for making others feel welcome. Whether through music, teaching, a homemade meal, or a handmade gift, she enriched the lives of everyone around her.
Miriam is survived by her children, Paul Welker (Jesusita) of San Antonio, TX, Ralph Welker (Nancy) of Copperas Cove, TX, and Grant Welker of Portales, NM; grandchildren, David Welker (Rosie), Renee Berban (Chris) , Michael Welker (Jessica), Carolyn Hernandez, Richard Welker, Stefanie Boivin (Britt), Jessica Page, Chantel Welker; great grandchildren, Jasmine Welker, Maliyah Welker, Isaac Welker, Lincoln Welker, Kaden Welker, Javier Hernandez, Clara Welker, Savannah Boivi, Sabal Boivin, Jaydan Welker, Dustie Lowrey, Teaghan Lowrey, Ryder Lowrey, Addison Lowrey, Tommy O'Neill, and Leigha Perkins
Miriam Evangeline Nolan Welker was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Melvin Welker; her son, Eric Stewart Welker; and her parents, William Cassius Nolan and Genevieve Catherine Cypher Nolan.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of Gentiva Hospice and Morada Temple Skilled Nursing Facility for the kindness, dignity, and loving care they provided during Miriam's final days.
A Celebration of Life will be held beginning at noon on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 1407 Buckboard Trail, Copperas Cove, Texas. Family and friends are invited to gather for food, fellowship, music, laughter, and the sharing of memories in celebration of Miriam's life.
Following the wishes of Miriam and Arthur they will be placed in interment in Pittsburgh, PA on September 24, 2026, at Allegheny County Memorial Park in Allison Park, Pennsylvania.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness, the sharing of music, or a gift to a charity meaningful to Miriam's life and values.
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