Nelda Maureen Blackwell

Nelda Maureen Blackwell, 97, passed away on Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at her home, surrounded by family in Arlington, Texas.  She was born on November 13, 1926, in Kempner, Texas to Mac Stewart Baird and Viola (Stubblefield) Baird.

A visitation will be held at Sneed-Carnley Funeral Chapel, 201 E. 3rd St, Lampasas, TX, 76550 at 12 pm, Monday, June 24, 2024.  Funeral services will be held at 1 pm, Monday, June 24, 2024, with burial following at Killeen Memorial Cemetery, 3516 Lake Rd., Killeen, TX, 76543.

Nelda grew up in Kempner, Texas.  She graduated from Killeen High School in Killeen, TX.

Nelda married Jerome Keener Blackwell on June 20, 1942, in Killeen, Texas.  They were happily married for 62 years.  They raised three wonderful daughters, who gave them a total of eight grandchildren.  Nelda was very proud of her family and often said, "I don't know what I would do without my family."  Nelda was a member of First Street Church of Christ in Lampasas for 54 years.  She enjoyed playing games with her husband, other family, and friends.  Her most recent favorite game was Rummikub.  She took up painting at 90 years old and produced several beautiful pieces that are proudly displayed in family members' homes today.

Nelda was preceded in death by her parents, Viola and Mac Stewart Baird; her husband, Jerome Keener Blackwell; her daughter, Karolyn Eernisse and her grandson, Darrell Smith.

Nelda is survived by her daughter, Sheila Eakin; son-in-law, Ken Eakin; daughter, Glenda Cochran; grandchildren, Spencer Smith and spouse Alyssa Smith, Jason Pearce, Travis Pearce, Brooks Pearce and spouse Amber Pearce, Kim Steinle and spouse Curtis Steinle, Cindi McCreary and spouse Trey McCreary, and Janet Brand and spouse Bill Brand; 15 great-grandchildren and seven great-great-grandchildren.