Martha Neilson

Martha Jo Neilson, 84, of Waco, passed away Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at her home surrounded by her loving family. Visitation with her family will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, February 14, at Grace Gardens Funeral Home, 8220 Woodway Drive, Woodway.

Martha was born December 30, 1929 in Malone to Willie and Maggie Ferrell, the youngest of five children. She lived in Mt. Calm where she went to school and worked at the family cafe. Martha attended 4-C College and North Texas. After graduating, she worked at General Tire as a bookkeeper.

In April 1960, she married Robert "Bob" Neilson. Martha ran the HOT Kart Club concession stand for many years. She loved being a "soccer Grandma" to her four granddaughter's, Jessica, Brandi, Kasey and Taylor. She also enjoyed watching Taylor learn to race go-karts and later mini sprints. On warm afternoons, Martha could be found sitting on the patio with her two buddies, Butterball and Luka.

Martha is survived by her husband, Bob; son, Gregg and daughter-in-law, Dana; daughter, Nanette; granddaughters, Jessica, Brandi, Kasey and Taylor; sister, LaVona Vardeman; brothers, Ron Ferrell and Jack Ferrell and wife, Joanna; nephews, Roynie and Billy Ray Vardeman and Clyde and Gary Ferrell; nieces, Audrey Ferrell and Mary Ellen Burns and their families; and many cousins and friends.

Special thanks goes to Dr. Keith Boles and nurse Donna at the McGregor Family Clinic and to caregiver, Evelin Higareda, Dr. Elwell and Dr. Clark of Providence and lastly to the staff at Providence Hospice for their wonderful care during this very difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial in Martha's name to the Waco Humane Society or a charity of your choice.