Nancy Hearrell Nelson

Nancy Lou Hearrell Nelson, a sixth generation Texan, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2021, at the age of 86. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Bill L. Nelson, brother Jack Hearrell and her precious grandchild, William C. Nelson. She is survived by her son William “Perch” Nelson (wife Judy), daughter Kellie Nelson McCrory (husband Mike), grandchildren Michael McCrory, Molly Nelson, Travis McCrory, many friends, and her sassy cat Charlie.

From her roots in Gladewater, Texas, Nancy went on to graduate from Stephen’s College in Columbia, Missouri, become a registered Medical Technologist, a certified professional parliamentarian, and a graduate of Leadership Dallas.

In addition to being a wonderful wife and mother, Nancy ‘s long life was ornamented with accomplishments. She served on several national boards including the Association of Major Symphony Orchestra Volunteers, Mid-America Arts Alliance, Board of Curators for Stephen’s College, and Vice-Chairman, Junior Committee for National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.

Nancy loved to take on leadership roles. She served as the president of many non-profit organizations including AWARE, Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra, Stephen’s College Alumnae, Les Femmes Du Monde, Dallas Symphony Orchestra League, Friends of the DeGolyer Estate, Michael Stoner Chapter DAR, The Hockaday School Parent’s Club, National Association of Parliamentarians, and The Junior Group of the Dallas Symphony League.

She had a passion for fundraising and served as Chairman for: the openings of Sammons Center for the Arts, Sak’s Fifth Avenue, and Interfirst Plaza; Les Femmes du Monde Benefit Sale, The Women’s Council of Dallas Luncheon, Symphony Orchestra League luncheon, and the Dallas Symphony Ball.

She will be missed by her many associations, including the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Daughters of the American Revolution, Women’s Guild of United Cerebral Palsy, Dallas Theater Center, Leadership Dallas, and the National Association of Parliamentarians. Nancy held several governmental commissions including the Texas Commission of the Arts, Dallas Grand Jury Commission, and Advisory Council of Veteran’s Affairs.

In line with her passion for history and travel, Nancy served as the interim Director of the Dallas Historical Society and organized many group tours to Russia. She was also honored as the Texas DAR Outstanding Junior Member and elected to the Turtle Creek Hall of Fame.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 14, at Lovers Lane United Methodist Church, Dallas, TX.