Thursday, May 12, 2022
In 2007, when I was 16, I joined the Ponoka United Church. Our minister at the time set me up with Nellie as my church mentor, so that I would be comfortable coming to church alone. Nellie selflessly attended each of my weekly confirmation classes for six months and sat with me on Sundays. Over this time we got to know each other well and she always made me feel so special. When Nellie spoke to me she had this amazing ability to make me feel like I was the only person on the planet. She truly and deeply cared. Sometimes we would meet at her house and walk across the street together to church. She greeted me with her sweet smile, warm, welcoming eyes, and a big, tight hug every time. Nellie stood beside me at one of the most important events of my life, my baptism. I was incredibly honoured to have her there.
Nellie inspired me in other ways, too. We remained close as I graduated high school and pursued my dream of becoming a school teacher. Nellie even helped to facilitate my winning a local scholarship specifically for BEd students.
I loved to hear her stories of her many travels. Nellie’s unwavering commitment to and involvement in her church and community always inspired me. I will be forever grateful for the kindness she showed me as a teenager just trying to figure it all out.
I am gutted to hear of her passing and unfortunately will not be able to attend her service. I send my deepest condolences to her family, whom she spoke of often and in the highest regard. May Nellie rest knowing that the impact she made on this world is truly immeasurable.
