Nelda Kay James was born on November 29, 1962, the youngest of nine children born to J.B. and Inell James. She was raised in Crockett, Texas and graduated from Crockett High School. She later moved to Nacogdoches, Texas where she attended Stephen F. Austin College.
Nelda Kay accepted Christ at an early age and continued to practice her faith in God. If you ever asked her how she was, she would reply, “ I am good, by the grace of God.” She later moved to Houston, Texas for employment. This is where she met and married her beloved husband, Reffick.
Nelda was a very joyful and pleasant being who’s smile would light up a room. She had a passion for reading, traveling and liked eating at her favorite restaurant, Pappadeaux’s Steakhouse and Seafood. What she loved the most, was spending quality time with her family. Even given the adversity through the last two decades of her life, Nelda showed perseverance, courage, strength, and always had a sense of jubilation, no matter what life brought her way. Her ability to smile and shine through the darkest of storms is a testament to her faith.
She is survived by her loving husband of 34 years, Reffick Ali; her children: Jazmine, Justin, Sharena (Jairo), and Raffina (Anthony); her grand-children: Andres, Eric, Deven, Davian, and Abrianna; siblings: Norma Jean Ford of Baytown, Texas, Jesse James (Kathy) of Houston, Texas, Bobby Jean Davis of Pasadena, Texas, Frank James of Crockett, Texas; Wanda James of Crockett, Texas, and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives; childhood friend, Carrie Ann Walker Gibson, and her beloved pal, Milo.
We will all miss you Nelda, you have touched so many people, your loss will be felt by everyone and you will forever be in our hearts.
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