In Memoriam: Nelwyn Devall

    August 7, 2014, Heaven gained a precious angel, which is our tremendous loss. Nelwyn Chapman Devall, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister went on to be with our Lord today, after a long and courageous battle with illness. She was 75 years of age. Her life was a blessing to all that she met. To just say she loved life is an understatement. Her life exhibited such joy no matter the circumstances and no matter the company she was in. Nelwyn's family and countless friends continually experienced her unconditional love throughout their lives. She will truly be missed by all that loved and cared for her. 
    She is survived by her loving and devoted husband, Melvin Devall, three children, Kathy Craig and husband Mark, Steve Devall and wife Jill, Gary Devall and wife Michele, grandchildren, Tosha Hernandez, Shondelle Himel and husband Jason, active duty Aviation Ordnanceman with the U.S. Navy, Shane Hernandez, Austin Devall, Alexandra Devall, Anna Devall, Julia Devall, Drew Devall, Sage Brignac, Matt Iles, Megan Holley and husband Shane, great-grandchildren, Brandt Watson, Lakelynn Himel, Dakota Brignac, Breleigh Brignac, Kaslyn Brignac, Braysen Holley, Brooks Holley and Paisley Holley, brother Donald Chapman and wife Kim and countless nieces and nephews. 
    She is preceded in death by her mother, Mattie Chapman and father, D.D. Chapman. A special thanks goes to Bennie Lou Devall, sister-in-law, who Nelwyn called her "angel" for her timeless care, countless meals and attention given during this very difficult time of sickness. Another very special thanks to neighbors, J.C. and Sandra Santangelo for the countless meals, times of sacrifice, and pure love that they showed during this time. To Donald and Kim Chapman, another special thanks for the timeless care and love shown during this most difficult time. Also, thanks to many other loyal family members, friends and church members who devoted times of visitation and prepared meals. We could have never made it through without your love. 
    Visitation was held at Rabenhorst East from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Saturday, August 9, 2014. Visitation was Sunday, August 10, 2014, at Blackwater Methodist Church from 1:30 pm until the religious service at 3:00 pm conducted by the Rev. Marie Williams. Interment followed at the church cemetery. Pall Bearers included: Grandsons & Nephew, Shane Hernandez, Austin Devall, Drew Devall, Sage Brignac, Matt Iles, Shane Holley, Jason Himel, Doug Devall. Honorary Pall Bearers will include: Mark Craig, Ronnie Devall, Jay Devall, Ray Devall, Richard Devall, Gordon Devall, Duane Devall, Ryan Chapman, Rusty Chapman, Ben Chapman, John McKay, Rodney Jenkins, Paul Reed and Edward Eiland.