Nelda May Talley, age 87, gently and peacefully passed into the presence of Jesus on July 31, 2026, surrounded by family.

Nelda was born in Rush Springs, Oklahoma on November 28, 1938, to Hardy Lee and Mildred Beatrice Shotts May. They lived in Oklahoma near many relatives. As an only child for seven years, her dolls were her treasured companions, and she kept them in pristine condition throughout her life. In 1946 her brother Arlen was born.

In April 1948, her father bought a farm near Friona, Texas where they moved and raised vegetables. Nelda attended Friona Schools from 7th to 12th grade and graduated in 1956. Nelda remained endeared to many of her high school friends for her entire lifetime.

In 1954 she began dating Ross Kent Miller, Sr. and they married in 1956. Ross was a farmer and Nelda embraced life as a devoted farm wife. Over the next five years they welcomed three children- Kent, Curt, and Dana. Nelda loved and nurtured her family in the love of God and His Word. The Miller home was built on a foundation of faith in God, and together Ross and Nelda carefully guided the hearts of their children. Nelda was also a very active member of the Sixth Street Church of Christ. She particularly enjoyed the youth activities.

In March 1980, Ross died very suddenly of a heart attack. He was 45 and Nelda was 41. Nelda had a formidable spirit and though her world was shattered, she managed to hold the family close and lead them with an unwavering trust in God’s faithfulness.

With this change in her life, she began working in the business office of D.L.’s Thriftway and eventually became a teller at Friona State Bank for many years. Nelda loved serving in this capacity and made many community friendships.

Seven years after Ross’s death, she fell in love again and married William Stanley Benge. Together, Stan and Nelda found a new season filled with laughter and love. But after only two and a half years of marriage, Stan died from cancer. Once again, Nelda’s world was shattered but her steadfast faith in God carried her through another deep valley.

After another ten years passed, Nelda’s heart was captured by Leon Talley, her preacher and friend. They married on September 3, 1999, and have remained unwaveringly devoted to each other as well as their extended families. They later moved from Friona to Lubbock in 2012. Nelda had lived in Friona for 61 years. In recent years as Nelda’s memory declined, Leon was a valiant and vigilant caregiver. His love for her was as deep as the ocean.

Nelda’s grandchildren were the light of her life. She was an avid follower and supporter of all their activities. She excelled in being a grandma and in all things she loved. She was a phenomenal seamstress and an amazing cook. She also enjoyed reading and playing the piano during seasons of loneliness. Through every season of joy and season of sorrow, her presence, spirit, and example of perseverance and faithfulness were evident. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her so deeply.

Throughout her life Nelda Sharon May Miller Benge Talley cherished every name she wore.

Nelda is survived by her husband, Leon Talley, her sons Kent Miller (Amanda), Curt Miller (Kathi), and her daughter Dana Burton (Kendell), all of Lubbock. She is also survived by Leon’s children, Tracey Talley (Suzy) of Washington, Oklahoma, Troy Talley (Nicole) of Lubbock, and Terron Talley (Tasha) of Joshua, Texas. She is also survived by her brother Arlen May (Linda) of Duncan, Oklahoma, 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Nelda was preceded in death by two husbands, her parents, and an infant brother. Also, in-laws, Roy Sr. and Eva Miller and Alton and Mary Lee Talley.

The family wishes to express our deepest gratitude to the wonderful staff at Wilshire Place, Brookdale Remington Park and lastly The Isle at Raider Ranch for their excellent care and love given to both Leon and Nelda. Also, a sincere thank you to Leah Peterson of Hospice of the South Plains for her gentle and genuine care as she walked with us through the last months of Nelda’s life. God has tremendously blessed us with all of you!

Memorial services are scheduled for 10:00 am, Saturday, August 8, 2026 at the Shallowater Church of Christ. Following the service, the family invites you to join them in the fellowship hall for light refreshments.