Nelda Lou Shippey McGuire, age 92, of La Porte, Texas, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 6, 1933, in Hillsboro, Texas, to Jesse and Mattie DeHart.

Nelda was preceded in death by her parents, Jesse and Mattie DeHart, and her beloved husbands, Leland Shippey and Bill McGuire.

She leaves behind a legacy of deep love and devotion through her family. Nelda is survived by her children and their families: Dwayne Shippey and wife Christine; Brenda Diaz and husband Jose.

Nelda was a loving Granny to her grandchildren Mesha Keuss; Kristin Wilson and husband Shane; Jennifer Laza and husband Frank; Dustin Shippey and wife Katy; Sarai Cihlar and husband Shane; and Clinton Shippey. She was a proud and loving grandmother to her great grandchildren Spencer Leal, Lexie Laza, Cecilia Laza, Brayden Wilson, Blake Wilson, and Hazel Shippey, all of whom knew her affectionately as “Gran Gran.”

Family and relationships were everything to Nelda. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great example of faith, generosity, and friendship. Nelda never met a stranger—she was truly a friend to all.

Nelda was a faithful member of Bayshore Baptist Church in La Porte for over 45 years, where she served joyfully in children’s ministry and attended church camp with the children she loved so much. In her later years, she attended Oak Shade Baptist Church, where she was active in the choir and the senior group, enjoying many afternoons playing dominoes. She also proudly worked at the Seafarers Center for 25 years and was a member of the Red Hatters Club.

Service to others defined Nelda’s life. Whether through her church, her work, or her friendships, she was always giving of herself.

Nelda loved being in the kitchen and was famous for her goulash and coconut cream pie—recipes that became family traditions. She taught all of her grandchildren how to bake, passing down not just skills, but love and time spent together.

She was also a joyful gift-giver. Every stocking was always full, and giving brought her as much happiness as receiving did to others.

Nelda’s life was a beautiful testimony of love, faith, service, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew her.