Helen Ray McGrew Nelson passed awaypeacefully at her residence on Thursday, Feb. 2. The visitation andfuneral will be held at Philadelphia Baptist Church, 3646 Hwy 550NW, Caseyville. Visitation was 5 until 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 4,in the old sanctuary with family visitation from 3 until 5 p.m.Funeral services will be Sunday at 2 p.m. in the new sanctuary.

    She was 79 years old, born in Lawrence County on Nov. 21, 1932, toHerve and Annie McGrew. She was married for 51 years to Malcolm T.Nelson. They owned and operated Nelson’s Grocery in Caseyville from1954 to 1986. Mrs. Helen worked as a seamstress and floor lady atStahl-Urban Manufacture Company and Auburn Sportswear.

    Preceding her in death were her parents; husband; daughter, MargieWhite, of Wynndale; and brothers, baby William and Frank McGrew, ofSummit.

    She is survived by her sister, Hilda M. Thames and husband,Shelton, of Denham Springs, La.; brother, James Earl McGrew andwife, Lola, of Smithdale; and numerous cousins, nieces andnephews.

    She is remembered as a loving sister who reached out to keep herfamily close and connected. She was a member of PhiladelphiaBaptist Church and was a big part of her church and community.

    She also leaves behind her daughter and son-in-law, Sandra andRoger Rich Sr.; son-in-law, Richard White; and her sixgrandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren were the joy of her life.Grandchildren are Cassie Kennedy and husband, Allen, Natalie Gaughfand husband, Kevin, Eric Cupit and girlfriend, Debbie, Allen Cupitand wife, Meggan, Stewart White and wife, Kate, and Troy White andwife, LeAnne. Great-grandchildren are Clayton and Helen RayanKennedy; Madalyn, Brian and William Gaughf; Alana, Katie, Bradenand Reese Cupit; Langley and Sam White; and Briton White.

    Memorials may be made to the Hospice Ministries, Inc., 450 TowneCenter Blvd., Ridgeland, Ms, 39157; 601-898-1053. The family givesspecial thanks for their support and understanding.