Nell Sanders (Nunnelley) Donnelly
June 17, 1931 ~ January 4, 2023
Born in:
Jefferson County, Alabama
Resided in:
Leicester, North Carolina
Nell Sanders Nunnelley Donnelly, 91, died peacefully at her daughter’s home on the afternoon of Wednesday, Jan. 4, 2023, surrounded by her children.
Nell was born the second of six children to Wil Nell (Sanders) Nunnelley and Richard Alonzo Nunnelley on June 17, 1931, in Birmingham, AL. She was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Thomas Milton Donnelly, as well as three of her five brothers.
Nell was held in the highest esteem by her little brothers, who she helped raise in the family home in the East Lake neighborhood of Birmingham. She took care of the home and her own children full-time until her youngest child was in college, at which point she forged a career with Qualex Inc., a film developing company, until her retirement. Nell was active in the Women’s Auxiliary of the Norrth Carolina Association of Pharmacists, and in the congregation of First Christian Church. She loved to sing, and sang alto in the church choir. She possessed a quick sense of humor, and enjoyed cocktails with husband Tom. She had an enviable wardrobe and personal style to match, as well as beautiful handwriting. She was loved by just about everyone who had the opportunity to meet her, not to say she was without her snarky moments.
Nell is survived by her three children: Richard Donnelly, Linda Driggs, and LeeAnn Donnelly, all of the Asheville area; two brothers, William Nunnelley, and his wife Carol; Joseph “Duke” Nunnelley, and his wife Paula; her sister-in-law, Brenda Nunnelley; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. A bevy of nieces, nephews, and many friends also mourn her passing.
Nell’s family will celebrate her life this coming spring, and will soon announce plans. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Nell’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.
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What a thoughtful, humorous, sweet and loving obit. An excellent snippet of her and her life. I look forward to hearing more stories and sharing memories.
Nell Donnelly was always one of the nicest people to me that I have known. I always felt welcome in their home and I loved hearing all the stories about the Biltmore area from her and Tom, particularly as I grew up there. I enjoyed her wit. After I retired I would see her from time to time at the South Buncombe Library and we would have brief enjoyable talks. A very nice person that I am glad I got to know.
If Linda Griggs was Linda Donnelly prior to marriage I was in the sixth grade in Mrs. Pegg’s class. I’m retired now living in Greensboro, NC but know that your very much in my thoughts losing your mom. I lost my mom in Asheville in 2019 so I know what your experencing.
Sorry to hear that your Mom has died. Robyn and I look forward to her celebration of life. Please let us know when it is.
I will never forget your Mom and Dad and feel really blessed to have known them. You all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Jim