Nancy Lea Nevels

1939 - 2025

Nancy Lea Nevels

1939 - 2025

Nancy Lea Nevels, 86, of Porterville, Ca, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother, Nancy's life was one marked by love, generosity and unwavering dedication to both her family and friends.

Born in 1939, in Porterville, Nancy was the beloved daughter of Albert and Helen Gray. She grew up surrounded by family and faith, values that shaped her kind hearted nature. She graduated from Porterville High School in 1957. In 1960 she began her career at the Porterville Developmental Center as a Psychiatric Technician for 42 years, offering care, compassion and dignity to those she served.

In 1964 she met Charles Nevels through mutual friends. After a short courtship they married, making their home in Porterville. A few years later they welcomed their daughter, Elizabeth and a son, Charles "Chuck". Nancy found great delight in sharing stories of their lives and accomplishments.

Nancy's remarkable talents extended beyond her professional life. An avid and gifted seamstress, she had an extraordinary ability to create beautiful garments and her famous diaper bags.

Throughout her retirement Nancy remained active in her faith as a member of Grand Avenue United Methodist Church, where she participated in Linda Circle and various committees offering her time and talents in service to others.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, Charles W. Nevels, children Elizabeth Brown and husband Mitchell, Charles "Chuck" P. Nevels and wife Whitney, five grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Hope Overholt, brother Albert Gray and wife Bonnie and extended family members. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Al and Helen Gray, brother Pat Gray, nephew Daniel Sarr and niece Julia Sarr.

A Celebration of Life will be held on December 20, 2025 at 11:00 am at Grand Avenue United Methodist Church in Porterville, California.