Nelda W. Jones' Obituary
Funeral Service for Mrs. Nelda Forbus Welcher Jones, 87, of Alexander City, Alabama, will be Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the Chapel of Radney Funeral Home. Rev. Donnie Pritchard will officiate. The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm at Radney Funeral Home.
Nelda Forbus Welcher Jones, known affectionately as Nelda to her friends and family, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2024, in Birmingham, Alabama. Born on January 22, 1937, in Alexander City, Alabama, Nelda's warm spirit and generous heart left an indelible mark on those she met throughout her 87 years.
Nelda's life was characterized by her selfless nature, her loving disposition, and her passionate approach to life. She graduated from Benjamin Russell High School and went on to dedicate over 30 years of service to Russell Corporation, where she worked diligently in the Winding Room and later at the Distribution Center, where she was known to show off her skills of driving a forklift. Her hard work and dedication were testament to her strong work ethic and her desire to provide for her loved ones.
Family was the cornerstone of Nelda's world. She was the beloved wife of Bobby G. Jones of Alexander City, and a devoted mother to her daughters, Wanda (Dick) Toland, Elaine W. Patterson, and Donna Jackson. She cherished her role as grandmother to Ashley (Lane) Sanders, Justin (Joanie) Toland, Jessica (Ryan) Sanford, Zachery Patterson, Zach Jackson, Morgan (Olivia) Jackson, and Lindsey (Josh) Anderson. The joy of her life continued to multiply with the arrival of her great-grandchildren, whom she adored: Kylee Sanders, Heath Sanders, Cooper Sanders, Ansley Toland, Hannah Toland, Breck Sanford, Shep Sanford, and Harper Jackson. Nelda's love and guidance will forever remain a guiding light for her family.
Her siblings, Wayne (Mary) Forbus and Betty (Bertie) Hutchison, also survive Nelda, as she was a cherished sister and confidante. Her legacy of love and care will continue to live on through the lives of those she touched. Nelda was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Morris Hillman Forbus and Flora Mae Forbus; her first husband, Franklin Welcher; her grandson, Wesley Sanders; and her sisters Robbie Jones and Janis Rewis.
Nelda's interests and hobbies were as vibrant and diverse as her personality. She had a passion for bringing people together, ensuring that anyone who entered her home felt comfortable and well-fed. Her love for her family knew no bounds, and she was happiest when her family was gathered around her. An avid collector and enthusiast, Nelda enjoyed perusing flea markets and antique shops, and she was an active member of the Red Hat Society and the Lake Martin Collectors Club. Her creative spirit shone through in her crafting and painting, often with a can of gold spray paint in hand, adding a touch of sparkle to everything she touched.
Above all, Nelda's purpose in life was to care for others, a trait she instilled in her daughters. Her home was a haven of hospitality, filled with love, care, and the joy of her grandchildren's laughter. Her legacy as a caregiver is one that will be carried forward by those who were fortunate enough to learn from her example.
Nelda's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the beauty of a life well-lived. As we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the indelible impact she made on the lives of so many. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories shared, the lessons learned, and the love she gave so freely.
Nelda Forbus Welcher Jones will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. May we find comfort in knowing that her legacy of love and selflessness will endure for generations to come.
Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be given to the charity of one's choice.
Radney Funeral Home is honored to serve the Jones family.
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