Bertie Levon Nelson, known fondly to many as Von, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2024, in North Little Rock, Arkansas. She was 81 years old. Born on January 14, 1943, in Hazen, Arkansas, Von lived a life rich in love, faith, and dedication. Von was born to Carl and Ruth Addison Raper, who instilled in her values of hard work and compassion. She spent her childhood in Hazen, surrounded by the love and guidance of her family. She received her education through the Hazen Public Schools and proudly graduated with the Class of 1961. In the years following her education, Von embarked on a career beginning with the Van Heusen Shirt Factory in Brinkley and later at the P & M Factory located in Marianna.

Von married Billy Wayne Nelson, the love of her life, and together they built a beautiful family. Sadly she would endure the loss of their son Terry before Billy's passing in 2012.

Von's journey of faith and love of family was a cornerstone of her life. She was a devoted member of the Gospel Lighthouse Church in Moro, where she found spiritual nourishment and community. As a member of The Encounters Gospel Singers, she shared her love of music and faith with everyone she met. For a time, Von also took on the responsibility of doing the bookkeeping for the church, a testament to her meticulous nature and desire to serve. She enjoyed fellowship with her church family and was dedicated to raising her children to understand the value of their inheritance in Christ.

Von's life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and friendship. She touched the hearts of many with her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith in God. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

While we mourn the loss of a remarkable woman, we also celebrate the profound impact she had on all of our lives. Von's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved and those who loved her in return. She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Ruth Raper, her beloved husband Billy, and her son Terry Wayne Nelson. May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and strong family bonds. Von is survived by her daughter, Lisa Sykes, and her husband Joel of North Little Rock. Her memory will also be carried on by her brothers, Russel Raper (Darlene) of Hazen, Dewey Raper (Cathy) of Stuttgart, and Timothy Raper (Lisa) of Stuttgart, as well as her sister, Charlene Boddie (Earl) of Richardson, Texas. She was a proud grandmother to four grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to three great-grandchildren. Additionally, she leaves behind a host of extended family members, her cherished church family, and countless friends who will miss her dearly.