Nelda Austin

A beloved member of the community of Melrose was called home to be with her Lord on July 8, 2011 . She was reunited with her husband Bobby who preceded her in death in 2001. She was born January 30, 1936 to Uthel and Opal Firestone in Melrose.

Nelda was a lifetime member of the Melrose community serving in her own unique way. She owned and operated a hamburger and candy store across from the Melrose School for thirty years helping her mother many years before. It was commonly called The School Store. She fed thousands of children and adults the best Nelda Burgers around.

She was a member of the Melrose Church of Christ when she obeyed the gospel July 18, 1948 and never wavered in her faith. Her lifes joy and contentment were her three sons. She was an avid supporter of them throughout their school years here in Melrose and that support continued on for all the kids until her death. In the heart of the Melrose School District, she will always be a proud Buffalo. Her sweet smile and cheerful nature were something she gave freely lifting the spirits of those around her.

Nelda is survived by her three sons and their spouses Dan Mary Austin of Ruidoso, New Mexico, Kenny Lori Austin of Friona, Texas and Randy Cristi Austin of Cedar City, Utah. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Thomas, Erin and Laci and her sister, Janette Jerry Collins of Bride Creek, Oklahoma.

Her oldest grandson Daniel preceded her in death in 2004. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Uthel and Opal as well as her brothers Jackie, U.G. and Joe.

Services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 12, 2011, at Melrose Church of Christ with Otho Rogers officiating. Burial will follow at Melrose Cemetery. Casket bearers will be Tommy Firestone, Ronnie Firestone, Paul Burrow, Thomas Austin, Daniel Aguilar and Donnie Collins.

Memorials can be made to the Christian Childrens Home, 1356 Hwy 236, Portales, New Mexico 88130.

Arrangements by SteedTodd Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 800 E. Manana, Clovis, New Mexico 88101, 5757635541. Visit www.steedtodd.com to sign the online guestbook.

Service

Funeral

Melrose Church of Christ
221 Main St.
Melrose, NM  88124
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
3:00 p.m.

Cemetery

Melrose Cemetery
Center St.
Melrose, NM  88124

Memorial Contributions

1356 Hwy 236
Portales, NM  88130