Nellie Boswell Thomas Raines
Nellie Boswell Thomas Raines, 90, of Moorefield passed away on January 12, 2022, at Grant Rehabilitation and Care Center in Petersburg. Nellie was born In Moorefield on September 27, 1931. She was the daughter of John David Mitchell Boswell and Sadie Helmick Boswell. Nellie was preceded in death by her first husband, Junior “Tink” Thomas who passed away in November 1988. She re-married in 2001. Her second husband, William (Bill) Raines died in August 2011. Six siblings preceded Nellie in death—Johnny Boswell, Viola Boswell Bean, Herman Boswell, Curtis Boswell, Catherine Boswell See, and Blair Boswell.
Nellie is survived by one son, Dr. Larry Thomas, her daughter-in-law, Mary E. Thomas, and their doggie “Cooper” who she loved dearly. A cadre of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive Nellie. During the latter stage of her life, Nellie was fortunate to have a wonderful roommate, Ms. Patty Ruckman, who advocated for Nellie’s interests.
Nellie lived her entire life in the beautiful South Branch Valley of West Virginia. She graduated from Moorefield High School in 1949. Over the course of her life, she worked at notable establishments in the Moorefield community, including Harrison’s Restaurant, Lang’s Drugstore, and Hester Industries. She was a member of Duffey Memorial United Methodist Church. Her “hobbies,” included cleaning, cooking, and talking with friends. (Special emphases must be placed on “washing clothes, making beds, and scouring the already cleanest refrigerator in the region, if not the state.”) Later in life, one of the things Nellie enjoyed was going to the racetrack to watch the horses run. She marveled at the majestic beauty of the animals, interacted socially with the colorful folks attending these events, and, of course, enjoyed immensely the cashing of winning tickets.
To all family members, friends, and acquaintances with whom Nellie shared her life, particularly the wonderful staff at Grant Rehab and Care Center who provided love and health care during the latter stages of her life, she would say thank you and God bless.
Because of the latest COVID outbreak, graveside services will be held at Olivet Cemetery on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. with Pastor Dan Sterns officiating. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Nellie’s name can be made to either the Duffey Memorial United Methodist Church or the Hardy County Public Library.
Elmore Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the family with her arrangements.