Nelda Sue Fulghum

December 16, 1953 ~ January 11, 2025
Born in:
Livingston, Tennessee
Resided in:
Joelton, Tennessee
On January 11, 2025, Nelda Sue Fulghum, age 71, peacefully entered the arms of her Lord and Savior. Born and raised in Livingston, TN, she was the cherished daughter of Howard and Nilene Masters and the beloved sister of Stevie Joe, whose life was tragically cut short in childhood. Her parents and brother preceded her in passing, leaving her as a legacy of strength, love, and faith.
Nelda was the devoted wife of Garland for 46 years, a partnership rooted in love, laughter, and a shared commitment to their faith. Together, they built a family grounded in devotion and warmth. Nelda was the proud and loving mother of Carla, Joshua, Jacob and his wife Ashley, and the adoring grandmother to six grandchildren: Benjamin, Juliana, Ethan, Caleb, Connor, and Maggie. Her family was her greatest joy, and her unwavering love, laughter, and guidance will forever remain in their hearts.
Having previously resided in Ashland City, Nelda lastly made her home in Joelton, TN in 2010, where she continued to bless the lives of those around her. Known fondly as “Miss Nelda,” she dedicated her life to nurturing and educating young children, holding multiple degrees in childhood education and development. Her expertise in infant and toddler brain development shaped her career as an executive director of several child care organizations in the Nashville area and earned her recognition as a trusted voice at regional and national conventions. Her passion for children’s growth and learning left an enduring impact on countless lives.
Nelda and Garland found joy in life’s simple pleasures—heartfelt conversations, long dinners together, and exploring the beauty of God’s creation on drives through the countryside. Her kind, humble, and gentle spirit, paired with her boundless capacity to love, made her beloved by all who knew her.
A dedicated member of the Western Hills Church of Christ in Bellevue, Nelda was surrounded by a faith community that brought her immense joy and support. Her presence, marked by her compassion and faith, will be deeply missed but forever cherished.
Nelda’s life was a testament to her faith, her family, and her unwavering love for others. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, wisdom, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Visitation with the Fulghum family will be on Sunday, January 19th from 1PM until 2PM. The celebration of her life will follow at 2PM, all at Western Hills Church, located at 7565 Charlotte Pike. David Estes will officiate the service.
Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, 6949 Charlotte Pike, Suite 104, (615) 857-9955. We are proud to be West Nashville & Bellevue’s only locally owned and operated burial & cremation provider.
To know Nelda was to love her. She always had that beautiful smile every time I saw her. I have known and loved the family so many years that I feel like a part of the family. Rest in peace sweet Nelda.
I was once asked, who was my inspiration. Who helped you in being who you are today?Who helped modivated you to choose good?
Who can you look back on and say, they helped me start the journey of childcare. My mind stopped in an instant and had one persons name on my mind, Mrs. Nelda Fulghum. I told that person my story briefly and she said to me, “I know Nelda”. It was quite awesome that she knew my person and over 20yrs had past and she knew my Nelda.
I remain in childcare today because she gave me a job and daycare for my boys(my 1st preschool class was with Wesley). When I left the center, I left with a career in my future. I remain in childcare today after, over 20yrs all because she believed in a momma who just needed a “JOB”. Mrs.Nelda is at the feet of Jesus tonight.She loved the lord so much!
Rest in peace sweet lady, your time on earth is done! Forever in my heart!❤️
Rob Ogletree
My deepest sympathy to the family. I had the pleasure of working with her! She was one great lady
I’m saddened to hear about Nelda Sue passing away. She was ahead of me in school & time passes, and friends get away from you as they move away and we all go different ways in life. Although I hadn’t seen her in years, I found her on Facebook and it was enjoyable to reconnect with her because I didn’t know where she had gotten to. I have fond memories of us back when we were young at school and around town. May she rest in the comfort of our Lord and Savior now. Sending love & prayers to her family.
Sharlotte (Hood) Lewis
Lisa Gordon and family
Ambere
To her husband and children: I am so sorry for your deep loss and praying that God surrounds you with peace and comfort.
Former Teacher at McNeilly
Praying for the family may God comfort you.