Nelda Dianne Blaylock

Nelda Blaylock, 81, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was born on July 8, 1944, in Mobile, Alabama, to Malcolm and Lela Mae (Howard) Cooper and passed away on February 12, 2026, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Nelda was a devoted educator, compassionate caregiver, and joyful lover of music. She left a legacy defined by faith, kindness, and love. She was a cherished mother, sister, and friend whose life reflected her deep devotion to the Lord and her unwavering care for others. Nelda’s gentle spirit, generous heart, and passion for uplifting those around her will be remembered by all who were blessed to know her.

A graduate of Laurel High School in Laurel, Mississippi, Nelda pursued her calling in education by earning her bachelor’s degree in teaching from University of Tulsa and Oklahoma Baptist University. She had a true passion for teaching and inspired a love of learning in all her students. Her care extended far beyond the classroom—she went the extra mile to support them, whether that meant purchasing football cleats traveling throughout Sequoyah County to ensure students had transportation, or quietly making sure every child had money for the concession stand.

Family was the center of Nelda’s life, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to caring for those she loved. She modeled what it means to be a devoted wife, daughter, mother, and grandmother. The light of her life was her husband, Stanley Blaylock. Together they enjoyed working on projects around their home, camping, cooking, and faithfully attending church.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stanley Blaylock; her precious granddaughter, Kealee Stewart; her parents, Malcolm and Lela Mae Cooper; and her brothers, Malcolm, Jerry, and Jimmy.

She leaves behind her daughters, Heather Armer and Kevin House, Lisa Blaylock and Jan Watson, and Holly; her sisters, Sandy Glen, and Ardath Strobel; sister-in-law, Nelda Brown; and devoted caregivers who were like daughters to her, Trisha and Tara. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Cade Paul Armer, Kylie and Andy Roberts, Preslie House, Shelbie Boatright, and Max Will Wallace; her great-grandchildren, Rose, Braxton, and Lillie Boatright; and her beloved grand dogs, Anna Beth, Weenie and Murphy.

A woman of steadfast faith, Nelda was a faithful member of First Baptist Church for more than fifty years. She joyfully served in many ministries, including Vacation Bible School, children’s programs, and the choir bells. She loved her Sunday school class, The Challengers, and remained committed to studying her Bible—even as her vision faded, she found ways to continue reading and reflecting on God’s Word.

Funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Muldrow, Oklahoma. Burial will follow at Memory Garden Cemetery, in Muldrow, Oklahoma, under the direction of Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

Active Pallbearers will be Lee Wade, Gerald Strobel, Bobby Strobel, Michael Strobel, Randy Winstead and Scott Winstead.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Robin Kelton, Kevin House, Max Wallace and Doug Cooper.

Visitation will be 2 - 8 PM Tuesday at Agent Mallory Martin Chapel in Muldrow, Oklahoma, where the family will greet 6 - 8 PM.