Helen Faye Nelson

Helen Faye Nelson, of Waldron, Arkansas, was born July 12, 1948, in Blythe, California, to Charlie Woodrow and Bessie (Smith) McFarland. She passed away Saturday, January 31, 2026, in Waldron, Arkansas surrounded by loved ones.

Helen was the kind of woman who spent her life taking care of everyone else. For 30 years she worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), giving her time, compassion, and steady hands to those who needed her. Nursing wasn't just her job-it was part of who she was.

At home, Helen found happiness in the simple moments that meant the most. She loved sitting on Amber's back porch with a cup of coffee, visiting, laughing, and just enjoying being surrounded by family. She was a fan of watching TV, especially The Walking Dead, and she enjoyed crocheting-making things with love, stitch by stitch, in the same way she cared for the people around her.

But the greatest joy of Helen's life was her family, especially her grandchildren. She loved them with her whole heart, and nothing made her prouder than being their "Nana or Nan." She treasured every hug, every visit, and every moment she got to spend with them. She was also filled with excitement and anticipation as she looked forward to the birth of her great-granddaughter, Stevie Sochor.

Helen was united in marriage to William "Ed" Nelson on November 8, 1995, and the love they shared remained close to her heart throughout her life.

She is survived by her children: Amber (Brad) LeMaster, Adam Akins, Tyson Akins, Brandon (Kyla) Nelson, Rusty (Cindy) Nelson, and James (Lisa) Nelson.

She is also survived by her grandchildren: Makenzie Polen (Garrison), Elijah Polen (Paige), Peyton Boyd LeMaster (Morgan), Courtney Wood (Corby), Kyle LeMaster, Addyson Akins, Ayden Akins, Daisy Akins, Seth Akins, Eden Akins, Evan Akins, Nikki Holt (Joey), Kandi Nelson, Bailey Nelson, and Logan Nelson (Sierra); and her great-grandchildren: Carlee Wood, Cash Wood, Liam LeMaster, Letty LeMaster, Alli Perkins, Garrett Perkins, Abigail Holt, Everley Sochor, and Stevie Sochor.

She is also survived by her best friend, Shirley Shores, whose friendship brought comfort and companionship through the years.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, William "Ed" Nelson; her son, Chris Akins; her parents, Charlie and Bessie McFarland; and all four of her siblings, including her best friend and baby sister, Betty "Punky" Charlieville.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, February 4, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Heritage Memorial Funeral Home.

A celebration of life service will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Heritage Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rickey Hunt officiating.

Interment will follow at Sehorn Cemetery in Winfield, Arkansas.

Pallbearers will be Adam Akins, Brad LeMaster, Brandon Nelson, Elijah Polen, Morgan Ingle, Garrison Sochor, and Seth Akins.

Arrangements are being entrusted to Heritage Memorial Funeral Home in Waldron, Arkansas.

Helen leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and will miss her beyond words. Her love was steady, her heart was generous, and her presence was a comfort. Though she is gone, the memories she created and the love she gave will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.