Velda Green

Velda Pauline Green, 96, of Cape Girardeau passed away peacefully in the early morning hours Thursday, May 3, 2012, at Fountainbleau Lodge.

She was born May 27, 1915, in Doniphan, Mo., to Henry Charles and Cora Lee Perkins Nicolaides. She and William "Billy" Green were married June 4, 1942, at Charleston, Mo. He preceded her in death in November 1966. They had no children of their own, but Aunt Pauline helped care for many of her 17 nieces and nephews and many more great- and great-great-nieces and nephews.

She lived most of her life in Mounds, Ill., where she was a member of First Methodist Church. She and a sister, Helen, continued to attend church there until they were no longer able to make the drive to Mounds. They moved to Cape Girardeau in 1997.

Pauline worked for Dr. Elkins, then later she and Billy managed the Roxy Theater in Mounds until it closed. She was part of the first Head Start program in Mounds, went back to school and eventually became the director.

Pauline had many friends in Mounds and around the country. She loved to travel and took many trips here and abroad with family and friends. She will also be remembered for the flowers at her home in Spencer Heights.

Her parents; five brothers, Myrel, Homer, twins Melvin and Elvin, Paul; and two sisters, Dorothy Nilsen and Helen Roberts, preceded her in death.

Pauline is survived by sisters, Virginia Dapkus of Highland, Ill., Joyce (Joe) Wallace of Sarasota, Fla.; a sister-in-law, Jean Nicolaides; a brother-in-law, Wedel Nilsen of Cape Girardeau; many nieces and nephews; and extended family.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Any memorials can be directed to Mounds Public Library in Mounds, IL 62964.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.