Betty Lanell Nelms

Betty Lanell (Hallmark) Nelms, aged 83, joyously transitioned to her heavenly home on Friday, October 16, 2026, in Eastland, TX. Born on January 8, 1943, in Gorman, TX, she was the beloved daughter of Billy Love and Idena Faye (Baker) Hallmark. Growing up in Eastland, Betty exemplified academic excellence and was proud to be the Valedictorian of the Eastland High School Class of 1961 before continuing her education at Ranger College.

Betty's life was rich with love, faith, and service. On April 6, 1962, she married her cherished husband, Gaylon E. Nelms, in Eastland, TX, and they shared a wonderful life together until his passing on February 15, 2010. In 1988, driven by their unwavering faith, Betty and Gaylon dedicated their lives to missionary work, spreading the message of God's love and goodness in the Philippines and Mexico until 2001. Betty was an active member of Bethel Baptist Church in Eastland, where she continued her mission of sharing the Gospel with others.

Her heart overflowed with love for her daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Betty's greatest joy came from witnessing to those around her and leading them to the Lord, serving as a beacon of hope and faith in her community.

Betty is survived by her loving daughter, Nancy Pleasant and her husband Garry of Eastland; grandchildren Justin Cummings and his wife Raquel, Devin B. Nelms, and Derek B. Nelms; and great-grandchildren Parkyr, Lilah (Lou), Itzel, and Laurel Faye. She was warmly embraced in the loving arms of her family, who will cherish her memory forever.

Betty's legacy will live on through all those she inspired and the countless lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her parents, Billy and Idena Hallmark; her beloved husband, Gaylon Nelms; her son, David Allen Nelms; two brothers, Billy Gene and Jacky Dale Hallmark; and an infant sister, Amanda Hallmark.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor her spirit by making memorial contributions to Bethel Baptist Church, 1306 W. Main St., Eastland, TX 76448.

A celebration of Betty's remarkable life will be held with a memorial service to be announced in the coming weeks. The family looks forward to sharing cherished memories and honoring her legacy with friends and loved ones.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home in Eastland.

In the words of Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in the sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer." Betty's heart was always aligned with this prayer, and she will be remembered for her unyielding faith and love.