Wilda Gay Nelson

Wilda Drum Nelson of Lenoir was welcomed into the arms of Christ on January 14th. Born to Roy Lee Drum and his wife Chloe Elvia Lynn, Wilda spent her childhood in a busy home with five siblings, all of whom she loved dearly. For many years, Wilda and her husband Bob lived in a cozy house on Olympic Street. There, they raised their two children and later hosted warm holiday gatherings in the time of their children’s children. They were devoted to their families, their church, and one another. After Bob’s passing, Wilda found joy in (and brought joy to) her neighbors at Brookdale Lenoir. She welcomed strangers as though they were family - in no small part because her genealogical knowledge was so great that she could tell you stories about people you didn’t even know you were related to. She had a vibrant creative streak that she expressed through drawing, gardening, and music. She was loved by and will be missed by many. Mrs. Nelson is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Nelson; her son-in-law, Fred Hickam; three brothers: Dwight, Bruce, and Joel Drum; and a sister, Linda Drum Kincaid. She is survived by her sister Martha Annas of Hudson; her son Lowell Nelson and his wife Janet of Charlotte; her daughter Teresa Nelson Hickam of Lenoir; her grandson Robert Nelson and his wife Taylor of Charlotte; her grandson James Nelson of Savannah, Georgia; her grandson Quentin Hickam of Charlotte; her much-loved roommate and companion Katherine Smith; and a multitude of nephews and nieces, grand and otherwise. The family of Mrs. Nelson thanks the staffs of Brookdale Lenoir and Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care and the staff and congregation of Hudson First Baptist Church for their gracious and loving service in her final years. A celebration of Wilda’s life will be held on Friday, January 18, 2019 at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Evans Funeral Service.Interment will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at the funeral home prior to the service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to Caldwell Hospice & Palliative Care or Hudson First Baptist. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.evansfuneralservice.com. Evans Funeral Service and Crematory of Lenoir is serving the Nelson family.