Nellie Sowards

Nellie A. Sowards, age 94, of Columbus, passed away December 1, 2021. Born on June 7, 1927, in Hawesville, Kentucky to Clarence and Matilda (Knaebel) McFarling. Graduate of Beechmont High School, Class of 1944. Member of Thurman Avenue United Methodist Church and UMW. Former volunteer for St. Paul's Lutheran Church Food Pantry and The Free Store. Nellie served as flag bearer for VFW Ladies Auxiliary during WWII. She loved horses, farm markets, camping, church, music, and family holidays. Preceded in death by husband, James Sowards, siblings, Joe, Eva, Betty, Junior, Mike, Peggy, and Marie.

Survived by daughter, Sheila (Alan) Gooch; sons, Jimmy (Valerie Gussler) Sowards and Albert (Mary Kaschak) Sowards; grandchildren, Jamie Sowards and Misty (Joe Confere) Sowards; great-grandchildren, Crystal (Tony) Ventresca, and Troy Ratliff; great-great-grandchildren, Robbie, Harper, and Waylon. sister, Shirley Kiplinger; many nieces, nephews, friends, and special friend, Lisa, who provided loving companionship while Sheila worked.

Nellie loved everybody and made them feel like family. Her children and family were her whole world, and she gave all her love and dedication to them. We were so blessed to have so many fun and loving memories. Nellie loved children and provided for them a safe and loving home while their parents worked. Sandra, Wayne, and Jess, who called her NaNa were just a few of the children she looked after. Nellie was a Christian and she loved the Lord and was a strong witness throughout her life.

Family will receive friends, Monday, December 6, 2021, beginning at 9 a.m. until time of service at 10:30 a.m. at GRAUMLICH FUNERAL HOME, 1351 S. High St., Columbus, Ohio, Pastor Bob Teal officiating. Interment to follow at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. To leave an online condolence for the family please visit www.graumlichfuneralhome.com