Cecelia “Denise” Axsom passed away on November 3, 2024 at the age of 71.
She was born September 1, 1953 in Canton, Texas. Her family moved from Texas to Fort Morgan, Colorado in 1955. She graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 1971. She then attended a semester of college before she decided to pursue her cosmetology license and become a beautician. Denise met Dan in Fort Morgan and they were married in 1973. They moved to the Axsom family farm in 1975, where they raised their two children and welcomed four grandchildren.
Denise was a very active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Otis. She held several positions at the church, including deacon, elder, as well as serving as the church treasurer for 14 years. As part of the Presbyterian Women’s group, she served many funeral lunches over the years at the church.
She was an avid reader, who loved a great mystery novel. When she was younger, she enjoyed her bowling league with friends. There was nothing she enjoyed more than spending time with family.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Denise will be remembered by her jovial personality, her sense of humor (she always appreciated a humorous anecdote or funny joke), her willingness to lend a hand to family, friends, or anyone in need, and her devotion to church and family.
Denise was preceded in death by her parents, Cecil and Zelda Townsend and her sister, Eugenia. She is survived by her husband Dan, daughter and son-in-law, Elisha and Michael Bains, son and daughter-in-law, Drew and Kayla Axsom, grandchildren Lucy, Cece, Alice, and Axel, brothers Dennis Townsend and Elton Townsend, and a sister, Tonya Rohde.
Funeral services were held Monday, November 11th at 10:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Otis. Burial followed at the Yuma Cemetery. Bowin Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.
Memorial donations may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Otis. Please reference the Denise Axsom scholarship memorial in the memo line.