Nelda Rae McPhaul

Nelda Rae McPhaul, passed away, Friday, June 3, 2022 in Fence Lake, New Mexico. She was born April 22, 1950 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the daughter of Cecil Duane Berryhill and Nelda Louise Elkins. She went by many names, but was best known as granny; a rancher’s wife who spent many days in the saddle.

Nelda enjoyed tending to their cattle, rodeoing and cutting with her husband, Jerry and the rest of her family who she was devoted to. She was a true cowgirl. Her 9 grandchildren kept her busy. They spent many days on the road, making sure to attend as many rodeos, games and activities as possible.

Nelda Rae loved beach days and family trips. One of her favorite trips to share with her family was magical moments in Disneyland.

Her hands were always full executing “Papas” agendas and making sure he arrived at all the rodeos and ropings on time, but somehow she managed to balance a successful real estate career, selling ranches throughout New Mexico. She also served as a Quemado school board member for over ten years. 

She’s reunited with her true love; her dancing partner and best friend. She will be missed by many. Until we meet again, granny.

Nelda is survived by her son, Ace (Timber) McPhaul; daughters, Nacona (Will) Cline, Tawana (Chris) Lilly, brother, Wallace Berryhill, sisters, Ina May Hoffman, Glenda Kae Bybee, grandchildren, Denim McPhaul, Blazen McPhaul, Darlin McPhaul, Holden McPhaul, NaLynn (Conor) Hall, Whitley (Quaid) Muncy, Ike Cline, Tessa Lilly and Brynlee Lilly and great grandson, Tripp Hall.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry McPhaul and sister, Dawana Gay Hopper.

Funeral services will be held Friday, June 10, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. at the Quemado, New Mexico School Gymnasium, with visitation one hour prior. Interment will follow the services at a private family cemetery in Pie Town, New Mexico. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to http://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR/GiftFunds/GiftFunds?px=7533316&fr_jd=39300.

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