Nelda Ann Whatley, age 77 of Bruceville, Texas, passed away on February 3, 2026. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m on Saturday, February 7, at Restland Cemetery in Gatesville.
Nelda was born on March 29, 1948, in Gatesville to the late Willard Homer Whatley and Billie Bob Stovall Whatley. Nelda graduated from Gatesville High School before attending and graduating from Sam Houston State University with a degree in education. Nelda spent most of her teaching career at Judson High School in San Antonio where she taught special education. After Nelda retired, she moved to Temple where she lived in the country and enjoyed her many pets including a horse, a donkey, and several cats and dogs.
Nelda was preceded in death by her mother and father; an infant brother; and an aunt and uncle who had a big influence on her life, Don and Doris Donaldson.
She is survived by her siblings, Valerie Topham and husband, Trent, Michael Whatley and wife, Michelle, Donna Larson and husband, Jim, and Gregory Whatley and wife, Katsue; stepmother, Rose Whatley; and many nieces and nephews.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2425 E. Main St., Gatesville, TX 76528

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