Nellie Irene Ainsworth, age 85, of Harrison, Arkansas, passed away on Friday, August 11, 2023 at The Springs of Harrison.

The daughter of Ruby Lucille (Chadwick) and Henry Thomas was born May 26, 1938, in Minter City, Mississippi. She moved to Harrison 20 years ago from Greenville, Mississippi and attended The Church. She loved the Lord and was strong in her faith.

Nellie worked for many years as a convenience store manager and passed on her hard work ethics to her family. She loved to play Bingo and Yahtzee.  She also enjoyed fishing and traveling. Nellie drove herself many times to Mississippi and Texas to visit family.

Nellie was a loving mother and grandmother; and was the proud matriarch of a 5-generation family. She was very giving, donating regularly to several orphanages and St. Jude, despite having little means. Nellie lived the role of caregiver, and that character defined her heart. She was always caring for others and placed their needs above her own. She will be remembered by her family for her strong fighting spirit, both mental and physical. She always pressed on despite any challenges that came her way.

She was preceded in death by her father, Henry Thomas; her mother, Lucille (Chadwick) Elliott; brother, Jerry Thomas; sister, Jean Vancleave; daughter, Wanda Driskell; and daughter-in-law, Cindy Rogers.

Nellie is survived by her sons, Charles "Chuck" Rogers, Jr., and Mike Lafee; her daughters, Brenda Huddleston, and husband Johnny, and Teresa Oaks; three brothers, Henry Thomas, Jr., William Thomas, and Jimmy Thomas; 12 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren, 14 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and many dear friends at The Springs of Harrison.

Celebration of Life will be held at 10 AM, Saturday, August 19, 2023 at Coffman Funeral Home Chapel in Harrison with Pastor Johnny Huddleston officiating.

On-line condolences can be left at www.coffmanfh.com.