Nellie "Nell" Mae Brunk

Nellie "Nell" Mae Brunk peacefully met her Lord and Savior, at the age of 95 on April 29, 2024. Affectionately known as Ms. Nell, she was born on April 10, 1929 to Elwood and Fern Burns. She spent her formative years in Eddyville, Iowa, on a farm where her family provided shelter and meals to numerous families during the Great Depression. Nell carried forward this nurturing spirit into her role as a wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

A passionate reader, Nell found solace in books, transporting her imagination beyond the Iowa farmlands to distant realms. Her dreams took flight when she met and married her beloved Marine, Master Gunnery Sergeant George William Brunk, Jr. Nell epitomized the role of a supportive military spouse, fostering a warm and welcoming home throughout her husband's service, which eventually led them to retire in New Orleans—a place where she could relish Oyster Po-boys without the chill of snow.

In 2008, Nell embraced Catholicism and embarked on a profound devotion to the Blessed Mother. In one of her final journeys in 2011, at the age of 82, she embarked on a Catholic pilgrimage to Portugal, France, and Italy. Undeterred by age, she walked every step of the pilgrimage, cherishing each moment without complaint, declaring her willingness to crawl on her knees if necessary to fully absorb the experience.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Lafreniere Assisted Living and Passages Hospice, for their compassionate care and support. She is survived by her two daughters, Paula Louise Atchley and Diane Geormae Brunk, six grandchildren, one great grandchild, and one more due in July.

A visitation for Nellie will be held Friday, May 3, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124, followed by a catholic mass from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.