Rafael E. Nery

Rafael E. Nery, born on April 13, 1962, in El Salvador, departed this world on January 6, 2026, at the comfort of his residence. He was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished grandfather who touched the lives of many with his warm heart and generous spirit. Rafael's retirement from Smith and Nephews after 23 years was a significant milestone, allowing him to invest more of his time in his passions, his family, and his beloved hobbies.

Rafael was a man of many talents. His love for the great outdoors was matched only by his skills in building and crafting. As a devoted husband, he enjoyed spending countless hours helping his wife, Debra, with her crafts, showcasing a relationship built on support and mutual joy. He filled their home with warmth and laughter, fostering an atmosphere of love that resonated strongly within his family.

His pride in his role as a father was evident in every aspect of his life. Rafael took immense joy in his children: his son, Raphael; step-daughter, Demetris (Taquon Hamond) Hawkins; and step-son, Maurice Durrell Martin. His greatest accomplishments were not marked by material success but by the simplicity of providing a home, planting gardens, and nurturing the bond he shared with his family. He was a great father—one who guided, loved, and inspired his children.

Rafael's love extended beyond his immediate family. He was a doting grandfather to Angel, Ashanti, Amaree, Ashton, Ava, and Lazayvion, and a great-grandfather to Karter and Kaycen. Each cherished moment spent with his grandchildren was a memory etched in time, where laughter and family fun took center stage. Rafael had an uncanny ability to make every gathering special, often revolving around cherished hobbies like hunting, fishing, and cooking, further solidifying the bonds of love within his family.

He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and a spirit of adventure, not only through his hobbies but also through the cherished memories created during family times, dancing, and laughter. Siblings Raul (Linda) Nery and Edgar (Kelly) Trejor. In-laws Jack (Joyce), Brenda (Charles), Regina (Jessie), Geneva, and Penninsula stand among those who carry on his memory, sharing stories and experiences that reflect the loving and supportive nature Rafael embodied.

As we say goodbye to Rafael, we take solace in knowing he is reunited with his parents, Rogelio Nery and Lilian Caballero. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him.

A visitation will be held on January 11, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 2:00 PM at The Carter Memorial Chapel at Twin Oaks Funeral Home, located at 290 Goodman Road East, Southaven, MS 38671.

Rafael E. Nery will be deeply missed, yet his generous spirit and heartfelt love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory be a blessing to all.