Shirley Eileen Nelson Lovell's Obituary
Shirley Eileen Nelson Lovell went to be with her Lord and Savior June 4, 2026, at the age of 91.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held Friday, July 10, 10:00am at the First Baptist Church in Claude, TX.
Cremation & Arrangements are under the care of Robertson Funeral Directors.
Shirley was born August 7, 1934, in Claude, TX, to Lloyd Vernon and Avis Christian Nelson. Her devout Christian faith carried her daily and was lovingly felt by numerous lives she touched along the way.
She graduated from Claude High School in 1952, attended Hardin-Simmons University, then Texas Tech University --- where she graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Applied Arts (Home Economics and Home Economics Education). After graduation, she worked at Dotty Dan Manufacturing in Lamesa, TX, as a designer of children’s clothing for boys. Shirley furthered her education at Texas Woman’s University, pursuing a Master’s in Home Economics. From 1962 – 1964, she taught High School Home Economics in Floydada, Tx and Claude, TX.
In the early 1960’s, Shirley met Joe T. Lovell, and they were soon married April 12, 1963. As she and Joe began to build their life together, they established Claude as the community where they would raise their daughters (Leah Marie and Sheila Jo) and be blessed with over 6 decades of marriage. She loved her calling as a wife and mother and devoted herself completely to her family. She also enjoyed time with dear friends and sisters, Bible studies (both with adults and children), school activities, journaling and scrapbooking family memories, cooking, gardening, birdwatching, walking her little dog, and many memorable trips with loved ones. Later in life, she was thrilled to welcome new members to her family ----- sons-in-law, grandchildren, and two sweet great-granddaughters. Shirley’s face always lit up as she continuously expressed her gratitude for God’s blessings. As she graciously followed her journey on earth, she scattered beautiful seeds of her kindness and steadfast faith.
Shirley is survived by her daughter Leah Gregory and husband Mike of Rociada, NM; daughter Sheila Jenkins and husband Kevin of New Braunfels, TX; grandson Grant Gregory and wife Katie (and great-granddaughters Clare Joe and Sloan Kay) of Trementina, NM; grandson Sam Gregory and wife Shelby of Hartley, TX; grandson Gabe Gregory and wife Laney of Rociada, NM; grandson Ben Jenkins and Tira Holland of Aviano, Italy; granddaughter Brooke Jenkins of Leander, TX; sister Marilyn Nelson-Perry of Springfield, MO.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Joe (2025), parents Lloyd (1972) and Avis (1987), sister Sharon (2023), and sister Mary Eloise (1931).
Shirley’s life was a beautiful testimony of faith, kindness, and deep love for family and friends.
We kindly ask that memorial donations be sent to Hudson House Claude. 301 Trice Street PO Box 190 Claude, TX 79019
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