Stella Nell Messer

Stella Nell Messer died Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Life Care Center in Collegedale, TN. She was born February 20, 1936, in Haywood County, N.C, to the late Maude and John Hal Rose. She was a long-time resident of Iron Duff community near Waynesville, N.C. Her last years were spent in Cleveland, TN with family and friends. 

Ms. Messer retired from a home health agency after years of service as a licensed practical nurse. As a member of Valley View Baptist Church in Cleveland, TN she served as a Sunday School teacher and actively worked in the church’s food ministry (The Valley View Storehouse). 

Nell loved gardening, tending her flowers and watching birds that visited her yard. One of her fondest memories was a mission trip to Africa where she served as a nurse. 

She and her husband, Yoder, shared 43 years of marriage. She will be remembered for her warmth, her devotion to her family and the countless beautiful moments she created with those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Yoder Davis Messer, and sister Joan R. Hill. 

Survivors include son, Davis (Lorraine) Messer, daughters Judy (Dave) Slagle, and Trudy (Al) Lilly; her eight grandchildren, Hal Messer, Sara (Heath) Nance, Jay Messer, Jessica Slagle, Catherine Slagle, Taylor Messer, April Gauze, Samantha Robertson; and seven great grandchildren, Makena Nance, Laney Nance, Stella Luna Mei Slagle, Isaac and Jamison Sizemore, Bradyen and Branson Robertson. 

Local visitation will be held at 10:30-11:00 am on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Valley View Baptist Church in Cleveland followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 at the church. Pastor Judson Kirkpatrick will conduct the service. Interment will follow on Sunday, January 11 at 3:00 pm at White Oak Baptist Church in White Oak, N.C. with Pastor Stacey Harris presiding.

 In lieu of flowers please send any donations to Valley View Storehouse Food Ministry at Valley View Baptist Church at 4657 Spring Place Rd. SE, Cleveland, TN 37323.