Nelma Allen

Nelma Allen, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2024, in Raymond, Mississippi, at the age of 87. Born on December 23, 1936, to Harry B. Gambrell and Opal McIntosh Gambrell, in Summerland, Mississippi.

Nelma completed her education at Culkin Academy in Vicksburg, graduating in 1954. On December 15, 1957, Nelma married Virgil, the love of her life, Virgil D. Allen, Jr. Shortly after, she began her career as a secretary and bookkeeper for various law firms and the Water Club. She dedicated her early working years to support her husband, Virgil, through the Civil Engineering program at Mississippi State University.

Nelma shared 66 wonderful years of marriage with Virgil and together they raised three devoted sons. She found immense joy in her role as a mother and was proud to instill her love for the Lord in her children. She was known for her unwavering commitment to her family, often referred to as the "glue" that held them together, taking care of numerous responsibilities including managing finances, overseeing school assignments, and maintaining a nurturing home. She and Virgil were instrumental in putting all three of their boys through college, an accomplishment that filled them with pride.

Nelma loved bowling. She was very fond of gardening and took great pride in the flowers she grew. She enjoyed sewing and cooking, taking great care of her home and the warmth she extended to her family and friends. She is remembered not only for her profound love for her family but also for her strong sense of integrity, having made a pledge in her youth never to take a drink, a commitment she honored throughout her life.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Virgil D. Allen, Jr.; her sons, Gary (Connie) and Roger (Cindy); grandchildren: Brett, Conner, Jacob, Preston, and Brittany Allen; Lydia Dungan (Ben), and Heather Hawkes (Joel); and four cherished great-grandchildren.

Nelma was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, Donald and Doyle Gambrell, Jeanette Bean, and Judy Hicks, as well as her son, Mark Allen.

Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, and she will be greatly missed for her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to her family.