Carla Neel Rawson

Carla Neel Rawson, age 71, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on September 8, 2023. She was born on December 16, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to parents Frederick Travis Neel and Genevieve Batavia Hill Neel. Carla spent her 71 years enriching the lives of those around her with her love, compassion, and faith.

Carla was a proud graduate of Indiana Purdue, where she obtained a bachelor’s degree in interior design. Her innate sense of style and creativity also led her to become a self-taught jewelry designer. Her unique pieces won several state awards, reflecting her talent and dedication to her craft. Carla's artistic abilities were not confined to her professional life; they were also evident in her interests and hobbies.

An active member of the First Baptist Church in Palestine, Texas, Carla's faith was integral to her life. She was known for her compassion and her unfailing encouragement of others. Her faith-filled life was an inspiration to many within her community and beyond. She lived her life with an unwavering belief in the redemptive love of Jesus, a love she passionately shared with everyone she encountered. Her zeal for life was matched only by her devotion to spreading the message of salvation. Carlas’s life serves as a reminder that we too can find our hope in Jesus.

Carla's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of faith, and the beauty of compassion. She may no longer be with us in person, but her influence will resonate in the hearts of her loved ones forever. We celebrate her life and honor her memory, cherishing the time we had with her and the love she shared with us.

She joined her parents Frederick and Genevieve Neel in Heaven.

Carla was married to the love of her life, Ken Rawson, for 52 years, 5 months, and 6 days. Their love story was one of enduring commitment and mutual respect, setting a beautiful example for their children and grandchildren. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Kevin Rawson, Kenneth Rawson, and Erin Newman, who is married to Justin. Carla was a devoted mother who nurtured her children with love and instilled in them the values of kindness and respect for others.

She is also survived by her brothers, Steve Neel and wife Marilyn, and Gregg Neel and wife Lezlee. Carla cherished spending time with her family. Her love extended to her four grandchildren, Georgia Grace, Annabelle Rose, Ruby Elizabeth, and Justus Clement. To them, she was their beloved "Mimi," who poured her heart and soul into their lives, creating a bond that will forever be remembered.

Carla's life will be celebrated with a memorial service to honor her on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at eleven o’clock in the morning, at First Baptist Church in Palestine, Texas. In accordance with her wishes, Carla will be cremated.

Friends are invited to share memories of Carla with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at First Baptist Church Palestine.

Cremation and memorial services for Carla Neel Rawson are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.

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