Opal C. Nelson

Opal Mae Childress Nelson, 83, passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024, in Augusta County.

She was born on July 5, 1941, in Augusta County to the late Julius Edwin and Elsie Mildred Smith Childress.

Opal dedicated herself primarily as a homemaker, where her nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. She was a devoted member of Augusta Street United Methodist Church in Staunton, where Opal participated actively in the United Women of Faith. Her involvement extended beyond the church as she played a vital role in organizations such as the Staunton branch of the NAACP and the Church Women United.

Opal’s love of fitness and wellness was evident in her longstanding membership at the YMCA, where she enjoyed staying active. She was also a proud alumni of Booker T. Washington High School in Staunton and remained active with the Alumni Association.

Additionally, Opal was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star #109. She also found joy in dance, being part of the Back in the Groove Dance Troupe, where she displayed her vibrant spirit through movement.

She is survived by her sons, Michael Edward Nelson and his wife, Alexandria and Brian Edwin Nelson and his wife, Jennifer; her daughter, Veronica Michelle Nelson; her brother, Coleman Taliferro Childress; her sisters, Vanessa Childress and Jacqueline Childress; thirteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and one great-great grandchild.

In addition to her parents and her loving husband, Floyd “Eddie” Edward Nelson, she is preceded in death by her brother, Milton Cornelius Childress and her sister, Carolyn Marie Childress.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM on Monday, August 26, 2024, at Augusta Street United Methodist Church in Staunton with the Pastor John Benson, Bishop Payne, and Bishop Turner officiating. The family will recieve friends at the church one hour prior to the service, beginning at noon.

A graveside service will immediately follow at Thornrose Cemetery in Staunton.

The family will receive friends at other times at 178 Rolla Mills Road, Verona, VA. 24482.

Contributions can be made to the Staunton-Augusta YMCA (708 North Coalter Street, Staunton, VA 24401).