Elsie Darlene Nicewonder
Elsie Darlene Nicewonder, 94, of Roanoke, VA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Andrew James Wright and Hallie Agnes Wright; husband of 74 years, Frederick Harrison Nicewonder; sister Myrna Wright Shrader (Howard) of Salem, VA; and brothers, Charles F. Wright and Clyde Wright.
Left to remember her are her sons, Randy G. Nicewonder and his wife Rhonda, of Peterstown, WV; Steven G. Nicewonder and his wife Suzanne, of Salem, VA; grandchildren, Bryan Nicewonder of Salem, VA, Avalon (Dee) Nicewonder of Denver, CO, and Scotty Nicewonder of Salem, VA.
Born in Bluefield, WV on Monday, June 30, 1930, Elsie was raised in a Christian household and was very strong in all her beliefs. She was a high school graduate and earned an Associate Degree in Nursing and often worked side jobs in Avon sales and other efforts to make extra money for her young family. Elsie retired as a nurse from the Neurosurgery Department of Lewis Gale Hospital and served in her nursing career at various hospitals for over 20 years, as her husband’s railroad career moved them about in Virginia and West Virginia.
She was an active member of Grandin Court Baptist Church in Roanoke, VA, serving on several committees over her years of service, including Ministries Activities Center, Security, Worship, Flower, Memorial, Baptismal, and the Nominating Committees. She also served on the Church Council and sang in the Grand-N-Glory Choir. In her spare time, she enjoyed playing bridge, reading, decorating, and shopping as her hobbies.
A private family service will be conducted at John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home (Salem, VA), followed by a private interment at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens (Roanoke, VA), with Pastor Kevin Meadows officiating.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to the many doctors, nurses, therapists, and personal caregivers for their support and care during our time of need, especially to the Friendship Salem Terrace (assisted living facility) staff in Salem, VA.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Peterstown Food Pantry (PO Box 798; Peterstown, WV 24963).
Online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com.
Arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home & Crematory in Salem, VA.
