Carrie “Nell” Neilson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, died Friday, April 4, 2025, her sixty-sixth wedding anniversary with her late husband, John Melchior Neilson. Nell was born September 18, 1932, in Davie County, North Carolina, the daughter of the late Macy and Sadie Langston. Her own daughter, Kathleen Neilson, and her sisters, Margaret Dull and Maxine Carter, preceded Nell in death.

She is survived by her daughter, Mary Margaret Bishop, and her son-in-law, David Bishop, three grandchildren, Sarah Bishop Bernlohr (Blake), Alex Bishop, and Catherine Bishop Carrier (Conner), one great grandchild, Sawyer Bernlohr and sister Rachel Howard.

Nell was the quintessential Southern lady, warm and elegant yet determined and spirited. She was devoted to the Catholic faith, rooted in tradition, and committed to her family. Nell enjoyed conversation and mental sparring with friends and foes alike. She worked as an orthopedic nurse in her youth, cared for her children as a full-time homemaker, and then became an entrepreneur as co-owner of Queen Charlotte Antiques. Later in life, she enjoyed caring for her garden, taking long walks, sharing a cup of tea with numerous friends, and tracking the latest political news. She enjoyed her family and extended family immensely, especially her devoted daughter, Mary Margaret, who despite not sharing Nell’s interest in politics, was her constant companion and confidant.

A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, April 11, at 10:30 a.m. by Rev. Joshua A. Voitus and Rev. Ramiro R. Tijerino at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church at 6828 Old Reid Road, Charlotte, NC, with a reception immediately following the Mass at the Fellowship Hall. Interment will follow in a private family ceremony.

The family wishes to express its gratitude to Dr. Peter Justis, Via Hospice, and caregivers Shantee Chester and Marylyn Latimer, whose compassionate care enabled Nell to remain at home.

Memorials may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, MiraVia, or Via Health Partners.

Memorial Keepers (1)

Carrie Nell Neilson