Cornelia “Nelia” Louise Howard Self, daughter of the late Robert (Joe) Howard and Effie Mae Slay Howard, was born August 24, 1932 in Scott County, Mississippi. She departed this life March 9, 2017 in Calico Rock, Arkansas at the age of 84 years, 6 months and 13 days. She was united in marriage to Bernis Lynn Self November 17, 1984 in Lake Jackson, Texas. She spent her life as a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, teacher, grandmother, great grandmother, homemaker and friend. Before retiring, she worked as a teacher with Rainbow Child Care in Calico Rock. She was of the Baptist faith and a member of Arkana Baptist Church.
She is survived by her husband of 32 years: Bernis Self of the home; three sons: Ben Joe Gray (Lori) of Warren, Texas, Donald E. Self of Lumberton, Texas and Lloyd A. Self of Wiley, Texas; one daughter: Brenda K. Self of Austin, Texas; eleven grandchildren and seven great grandchildren and a host of other relatives and many good friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two daughters: Deann Gray and Terri L. Harris; and one brother: Robert (Bob) Howard.
Visitation and funeral service will be Monday, March 13 at Arkana Baptist Church with Kevin Byrd officiating. Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm. Funeral service at 2:00 pm.
Graveside funeral services will be Thursday, March 16, at 2:00 pm at Resthaven Cemetery in Silsbee, Texas under the direction of Farmer Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Arkana Baptist Church, 10919 201 S, Mountain Home, AR 72653.
Pallbearers: Roy Midkiff, Russell Hutchinson, Mike Watts, Jason Lane, Bill Bingham, Bob Evans.
