Daughter of Lawrence and Alice Lankford, Nell grew up in Harlan County, Kentucky with two younger sisters, Isabella and Sue, whom she cherished very much.
Nell was curious, smart, funny, and clever. She started elementary school well before other children her age and graduated high school at age 15. Nell obtained her teaching certificate and began teaching elementary school at age 16. By 19, she had graduated from Union College with a Bachelor of Arts.
Nell met the love of her life, James “Bud” Brock, on a Greyhound bus ride home from college. They married in 1950, had a daughter, Gaynell, and moved to Ft. Lauderdale, Florida in the late 50s. There they continued careers in education.
The family spent summers traveling the country, visiting state capitols, historical sights, and nature’s wonders–always stopping for a Kentucky family visit along the way. Later in life, Nell and Bud enjoyed cruises that took them to places such as China, Greece, the Netherlands and much of Europe.
At work, Nell was devoted to igniting a passion of learning and reading in children. She began her career as an elementary school teacher and then became a school librarian. During storytime she would often dress up as characters from the books she read - everyone from Little Red Riding Hood to Mrs. Santa Claus. Many students, now grown, have attributed their love of books, reading, and libraries to their time with Mrs. Brock.
Her interests included the theater, regularly attending local tours of Broadway plays and musicals; cheering for the University of Kentucky Wildcats; political involvement, making sure her vote went to the candidate who shared her compassionate views; and acts of service, always involved in community efforts.
Nell had a huge heart and enjoyed taking care of people. Food was her love language, and her purse always rustled with Werther's candy and other treats to be shared. At her dinner table, second helpings were a must. If you were full, she was happy.
She loved being a grandmother to Rebecca and Cate, and a great grandmother to Nathan. Nell spent her last eight years in Texas, focused on making more wonderful memories with her family.
Nell is survived by her daughter, Gay Falkowski; granddaughters, Rebecca Weikowski (Leah) and Cate Falkowski; her great-grandson, Nathan Weikowski; her sister Sue Foody (Tom); and numerous nieces and nephews. Nell will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, Gran, and friend. Her legacy of inspiring young people to discover the joy of reading will live on for generations to come.
Interment services for Nell will be private.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local food pantry.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.bluebonnethills.com for the Brock family.
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