Petroplex News

Midland, Texas - Nelda Raye Cranford, born on October 8, 1941, in Roscoe, Texas, peacefully passed away on January 30, 2025, in Midland, Texas, surrounded by her beloved husband and children. She was the devoted wife of Tommy Dean Cranford, whom she married on November 27, 1963, after being high school sweethearts.

Nelda, a graduate of Blackwell High School and McMurry University, dedicated 36 years to teaching in the Midland Independent School District before retiring in 2000. Her commitment to education matched her unwavering faith, demonstrated through her lifelong membership, teaching, prayer warrior role, and volunteer work at Wilshire Park Baptist Church in Midland.

A passionate educator, devout Christian, loving wife, and mother, Nelda brought joy to her family through her travels, archaeological interests, and above all, her dedication to sharing her faith in Jesus Christ with those around her.

Survived by her husband, Tommy; son Scott Cranford and his wife Missy; daughter Melissa Lickteig and her husband Michael; grandchildren Bradlee, Nicholas, Cassidy, and Jackson; great-grandchildren Theodore and Finley; sister Kay Kovach and her husband George "Sonny"; and niece Sheila Kovach.

Nelda is preceded in death by her parents, Raymond and Oleta Scott; sister Judy Hanks; and nephew Steven Kovach.

Graveside services will be held at Blackwell Cemetery in Blackwell, Texas, on Monday, February 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at Wilshire Park Baptist Church in Midland on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, officiated by Rev. Glenn Pipes. Flowers may be sent to Willowbrook Funeral Home in Midland.

Nelda's legacy of faith, love, and family devotion will be cherished by all who knew her, leaving an enduring impact on their lives.

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