A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Friday, July 3, 2026 at her home. She was born January 3, 1943 in Kentwood, LA and was 83 years of age. Nelda is survived by her 3 children, William Lawson, Patricia Lawson Shehane, and Thomas Mark Lawson; 2 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Matthew Shehane. Preceded in death by her parents, Pierce William Allen and Edna Dillon Allen; sister, Maggie Allen Meyer; and a very special person in her life, Norman L. "Pete" Swearingen. Visitation at Kentwood Methodist Church from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Thursday, July 9, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Geof Davis. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.