Nelda was born in Sour Lake, Texas on February 7, 1924. She spent the early years of her life in sour Lake attending schools in the Independent School Systems.  After graduation she attended the Schievner Business College for a degree in business administration.

Nelda married Ralph John Watson on September 11, 1948 and moved to Gardendale, Texas and then to Cotulla, Texas in the 50's to become a wife, a mother, a grandma, and a great grandma.  She enjoyed life with her husband for 53 years before he was called to be with his Heavenly Father in June of 2001.

Nelda was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Cotulla serving as a Sunday School teacher, WMU President, GA Leader, VBS Director, and numerous committees.  She was active in the Cotulla Women's Club for over 50 years.   She served as President in 1959-1961, in 1990-1992, and also in 2004-2006.  Nelda served as President of Alamo District, Texas Federation of Women's Club, in 1980-1982.  In the past years, Nelda was active in other community activities including the Cotulla Garden Club, American Legion Auxiliary, and Alexander Memorial Library as a board member.

She is survived by her sister Grace Alyne Naylor, son Ralph Jay Watson and his wife Joy, daughter Paula Alyne Brookshire and her husband  Mark, and daughter-in-law Deborah Kaye Watson.  There are six grand-children and eight great-grand children.

She is preceded in death by her father Alonzo Spivey, mother Adelia Sulser Spivey, three sisters, three brothers, and her son Dean Williby Watson.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Alexander Memorial Library, Cotulla Brush Country Museum, or First Baptist Church of Cotulla.