Nelda Ann Murff Peterson passed away peacefully on September 26, 2018 at 87 years of age in Carrollton Texas, surrounded by her family. Born September 3, 1931, she lived most of her childhood in Iola, Texas, with her brother, Carroll Murff. She met the love of her life, Kenneth, in Houston in 1952. On their first date, Ken told her, “I’m going to marry you someday.” They were married exactly one year later, and the rest is history.
Ken and Nellie were married 65 years, and together they raised two daughters, Elizabeth (Beth) and Amy, of whom she was very proud. They moved many times for Ken’s work over the years, including Albuquerque NM, El Paso TX, New Orleans LA, Nashville TN, Arlington TX, and finally retiring to Granbury, TX in 1994. She loved to travel with Ken around the U.S., taking many road trips exploring historical sites and landmarks. She loved to entertain and set the most beautiful tables, many times days in advance of a special dinner, tweaking and perfecting it as the gathering grew closer. Known for her friendliness, she was always curious about others and their lives, at times even welcoming strangers into her home just to chat and learn more about them. Nellie and Ken served for several years as Kitchen Angels at their cherished Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, where they formed many close friendships over their retirement years. Family and friendships brought her much joy and she loved to stay up and talk and laugh with those she loved.
Nellie was predeceased by her parents, Amy Marie McDuffie Greer and Talmadge Murff and her beloved brother, Carroll. She is survived by her devoted husband, Kenneth, daughter Beth and son-in-law Michael Lachin; daughter Amy and son-in-law Eric Carlson; grandchildren Joseph Schick and his wife Libby; Kristin Sparks and her husband Tim; Tim Lachin, Samuel Highley, Sophia Highley, Madilyn Carlson, Katelyn Carlson, Natalie Carlson, and Michael Carlson. She is also survived by her great grandchildren, Makenna, Julius, and Adrian Sparks; and Stella and Louise Schick. She is also survived by her dear cousin Dorothy Oden, who was like a sister to her.
Nellie’s family wishes to express their deep appreciation for the staff at Sonoma House Assisted Living and Encompass Hospice Care for their loving care during her last weeks and days.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, September 30, 12:00 p.m., at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, housed in the Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2016 Acton Hwy., Granbury, Texas 76049. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association.
