Nelda Jean Klawiter

Nelda Jean Klawiter, 75, passed away June 9, 2026. Born July 11, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, Nelda was raised in Greenville, Mississippi, where her life-long steadiness and quiet strength first took root. She later made her home in Katy, Texas.

Nelda attended Greenville High School and Delta State University, later graduating from the University of Houston–Downtown with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration. Earning her degree through night school at UH-D was a particular point of accomplishment, an achievement that reflected steady determination and a deep commitment to bettering herself. Nelda later built her career in banking industry management.

In 1989, Nelda married Tom Klawiter. Their life together was marked by devotion, love, and laughter for 31 years.

Nelda found deep joy in the everyday things that make a life rich: reading, traveling, and scrapbooking. She was best known for scrapbooking with her besties, and for a truly impressive collection of scrapbooking materials, gathered with care and the kind of delight that comes from treasuring memories. She also cherished time with her Shuta Club friends. Above all, she loved being with family, especially when Morgan and Matthew’s shenanigans turned the room into “the Morgan and Matthew Show,” a source of laughter and light she held close.

Nelda will be remembered as the world’s greatest mother and grandmother, and as a person whose generosity seemed to have no limit. Kind and gentle, she consistently chose to see the best in others, leaving behind a legacy of warmth, patience, and love that will continue to shape those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Nelda was preceded in death by her parents and by her husband, Tom Klawiter. She is survived by her son, Stephen Sztraky; her daughter-in-law, Michelle Sztraky; her stepson, Trey Klawiter; and five grandchildren, Morgan and Matthew Sztraky, and Palmer, Wyatt, and Sam Klawiter. She is also survived by her beloved cat, stormy.