Nelda Gay Schuening

Nelda Gay Schuening, known affectionately as Nelda, passed away peacefully on Friday, the 26th day of April 2024, in Palestine, Texas, after a prolonged illness at PRMC Hospice Unit. Born on the 14th day of August 1946, in Dallas, Texas, to parents Charles Melton Phillips and Lena Catherine Walling. Nelda's life was a tapestry of love, kindness, and gentle strength that touched everyone she knew.

Throughout her life, Nelda's passions were as nurturing as her soul. She found solace in the rhythm of her garden, the warmth of her kitchen, and the sweet success of her baking. Her love for cooking created not just meals but moments of connection, laughter, and memories that her family will treasure forever.

She is preceded by her parents and sister, Carolyn Taylor.

Nelda's journey through life was marked by her unwavering devotion to her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Ronald "R.J." Schuening, her children, Darla Ahlgrim and husband Brian, Robert Beggs and wife Adrienne, Justin Beggs, and Summer Strong. Her stepdaughters, Angela Edmiston, and Elizabeth Shelley also held a special place in her heart. Nelda's legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren, Robert Coleman, Savannah Beggs, Jacob Beggs, Machel Ellis, Josh Guthrie, and Cody Guthrie, as well as her adored great-grandchildren, Connor Ellis, Craig Ellis, Dakota “Luna” Ellis, Taylon Guthrie, Andrew Coleman, and Dustin Coleman. Nelda’s siblings, Evie Pharis and husband Curtis, Allyene Stowe, Judy Parker, Buford McCarter and wife Marilyn, Harold Phillips, and Wayne Phillips will remember her fondly for her nurturing spirit and the joy she brought into their lives. To her numerous nieces and nephews, she was known endearingly as "Aunt No-No," a testament to the special bond she shared with each of them.

Nelda’s wishes were to be cremated. A private family ceremony will be held to honor Nelda's life and legacy at a later date.

Cremation services for Nelda Gay Schuening are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.  Please visit her online memorial tribute by selecting the "Share a Memory" icon, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with her family.

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