Nelda Louise (Smith) Massey

Nelda Louise Massey, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on March 23, 2025, at the age of 61. Born on July 12, 1963, in Athens, Texas, Nelda was the daughter of E.B. Smith and Annie Simmons. She spent her childhood in Athens, graduating from Athens High School before attending TVCC for cosmetology.

She spent her childhood in Athens, graduating from Athens High School. .In 1981, Nelda married Kenneth Massey, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and cherished memories. While Nelda was a stay-at-home mom in the early years of her marriage, she later pursued her passion for cosmetology, completing her studies at TVCC and becoming a dedicated professional. Nelda opened her own business in 1999, which she ran until 2002.

Nelda was deeply committed to her family and community. She was an active volunteer at her children's school and a dedicated member of the PTA, where she played an integral role in organizing and supporting school activities. She loved coaching cheerleading and sports, sharing her passion for teamwork and enthusiasm with the children she mentored.

A member of the Stingerettes drill team in high school, Nelda never lost her love for dance, often enjoying the rhythm of life with family and friends. Known for her sense of humor, Nelda had a personality that lit up every room she entered. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel at ease with her warm, engaging spirit. A godly woman, she embraced her faith and showed kindness and compassion to everyone she met.

Nelda was deeply loved by her family, especially her grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She loved spending time with them and was always the first to share a funny story or offer a loving embrace. Her devotion to her family in Athens, Texas, was unwavering, and her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.

Nelda is preceded in death by Kenneth Massey; her parents, E.B. and Annie Smith; her sisters: Martha, Margaret, and Judy; and her brothers, Donnie and Ronnie.

She is survived by her children: Anna Dobbs and husband Matt, and Kenneth Wayne Massey; her grandchildren: Seth Massey, Trent Massey, Mattison Dobbs, Mackenzie Dobbs, Savanna Dobbs, and Stoney Massey; her siblings: Patsy Turner, Junior Smith, and Pamela Rogers and husband Ed; her sister-in-law, Martha Smith; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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