Nelda Sue

Gortney

Nelda Sue Gortney, age 81, passed away on May 12, 2026, at her home, in the constant and loving care of her daughter, Jennifer. In final 's days Nelda was fortunate to have visits from her children, grandchildren, relatives and many close friends surrounded by love and the people who mattered most to her.

Nelda was born June 28, 1944, in Roscoe, Texas to O.C. and Dorothy Gabler. She was raised in Roscoe and graduated from Highland High School, carrying with her the small-town values of faith, family, and hard work. Nelda shared 63 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Jerry Gortney, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded death by her parents, O.C. and Dorothy Gabler.

Nelda is survived by her siblings, Larry and Sharon Gabler of Lubbock, Texas, and Linda High of Sweetwater, TexasShe also survived her children, Jennifer and Kary Kent of Sweetwater, and Jeff and Amy Gortney of Lubbock. She was a devoted grandmother to Kelsea and KJ Moore of Lubbock, Kade Kent of Durango, CO. and Jaden Gortney and Dagen Gortney of Lubbock.

Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Braxton Moore of Lubbock, Harlea Grace and Koby Compton of Sweetwater,  Kaylea Moore of Lubbock, as well as her great-great-granddaughter, Rayleigh Compton. Her little dog, Nola was her constant companion following Jerrys passing. She also leaves behind many relatives and dear friends.

Nelda "Grandma" loved spending time with her family, cooking and traveling to the mountains of Colorado.

She dedicated her professional life to serving others. She worked as a switchboard operator with Southwestern Bell for five years, followed by thirteen years as a teller with Texas Bank & Trust. She retired following eighteen years as a counselor with Lubbock CRTC, where her compassion, patience, and steady encouragement touched many lives. Nelda was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ. Nelda will be remembered for her deep love for her family, her gentle strength, steady faith, and quiet care she showed to everyone around her. Her influence and love will live on through the generations she nurtured.

A family visitation will on held on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., followed by a memorial service beginning at 2:30 p.m., at McCoy Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.mccoyfh.com.