Mrs. Thelma Louise (Smith) Nelson

I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith

- 1 Timothy 4:7 -

Thelma Louise Nelson was born on July 10, 1938, in Beaufort County, North Carolina, to the late George Whitfield and the late Bessie Crandell. On Thursday, April 23, 2023, God, in His infinite wisdom, called her home from labor to reward, granting her eternal rest and peace.

Thelma was educated in the Beaufort County School System and graduated from P.S. Jones High School. She was united in holy matrimony to the late Andrew Nelson. As a military wife, she traveled the world alongside her husband during his service in the United States Air Force, embracing each new place with grace and strength.

Thelma was a faithful member of Beech Grove Free Will Baptist Church, where she worshiped and trusted in the Lord. In her quiet moments, she found peace and joy in tending to her garden, knitting with care, and cultivating flowers that bloomed as beautifully as her spirit.

Thelma leaves to cherish her blessed and loving memory: her son, Gregory Nelson (Kenya) of Washington, North Carolina; her daughter, Tracey Nelson (Ron) of Washington, North Carolina; four grandchildren; one brother-in-law, William Nelson of Washington, North Carolina; and a host of relatives and dear friends whose lives she touched with love and grace.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at People’s Memorial Chapel. Celebration of Life service will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Beech Grove Free Will Baptist Church 271 Gray Rd, Chocowinity, NC 27817. Interment will follow at the Smith Family Cemetery in Chocowinity, North Carolina.

Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be directed to the Smith/Nelson Family through our website at www.peoplesfuneralest.com, by fax at (252) 940-6889, or via email at peoplesfh219@gmail.com.

We kindly ask that you keep the Smith/Nelson Family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time of loss.

Services of Love & Compassion have been entrusted to People’s Funeral Establishment of Washington, North Carolina.

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