Nellie Mae Edwards

Nellie Mae Edwards, born May 29, 1940, Iowa, was the beloved second daughter of Levern and Lillian Shaffer. She passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to her family.

Nellie was raised with strong values and a deep sense of responsibility that she carried throughout her life. A hard worker from an early age, she completed high school and soon began building the foundation of her greatest pride—her family. She lovingly raised her children, beginning with Kevin and Bart, dedicating herself fully to their care and well-being.

Throughout her life, Nellie was known for her incredible work ethic. She worked as a laborer in a printing company and later continued her work with other companies after relocating to Arizona. In 1969, she made Phoenix her home, where a new and meaningful chapter of her life began.

It was in Iowa that Nellie met the love of her life, William Russell Edwards Sr. Their bond was one of deep companionship and love, and they were later united in marriage in a private ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada. Together, they built a life centered on love and family and were blessed with two more children, William Jr. and Angela.

Nellie was truly a “spitfire”—full of strength, determination, and heart. She and her husband were both hardworking and dedicated, building their life through perseverance and commitment. At home, Nellie was the disciplinarian when Dad wasn’t there, making sure her children were raised with structure and care. While William was known as the cook, Nellie made sure everything else was taken care of—keeping the home running, the kitchen clean, and the children well cared for.

She had a deep love for her dogs and found joy in the simple, meaningful moments of life. Christmas was especially dear to her heart. She loved preparing for the holiday, making it special and memorable for her children, creating traditions filled with warmth and love.

Nellie and her husband also shared a love for adventure and time together. They enjoyed taking mini-vacations, creating lasting memories wherever they went. One special trip they fondly remembered was to Disneyland, a place filled with joy and laughter. They also loved camping and spending time on the open road, taking motorcycle rides together on his Gold Wing, embracing the freedom and closeness those moments brought.

Work was more than just a responsibility to Nellie—it was something she took pride in. She had an exceptionally strong work ethic and truly loved what she did, carrying that same dedication into every part of her life.

Nellie, was greeted in heaven by the love of her life, William Russell Edwards Sr.; her children, Kevin and Angela; her granddaughter, Crystal; her sister, Patsy.

She leaves behind her beloved family, including her son Bart and his wife Tabitha; her son William Jr. and his wife Candy; son Brian; and daughter Brenda with her husband Chris; her grandchildren: Angelique and her husband Bart, Abigail, Kaylee, Tristan, Tayler and her husband Dylan, Sierra and her husband Adam, Miranda, and Cheyenne; and 10 great grandchildren; her good friend, Marvene Halterman along with many other cherished family members and friends.

Her life was a testament to strength, love, and unwavering dedication. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.