Saline River Chronicle

Nealya Van “Doodle” Watson, 1944-2023

Nealya Van “Doodle” Watson, age 78, of Harrell, Arkansas passed away Saturday, February 18, 2023 at Life Touch Hospice in El Dorado, Arkansas. She was born March 11, 1944 in Harrell, Arkansas to Charles and Rae Harrell. She was a graduate of Hampton Public Schools, and the University of Arkansas at Monticello. She was a member of Harrell United Methodist Church.

After completing her degree, Nealya Van returned to Hampton Public Schools where she taught for 33 years. She loved teaching, and she loved her students dearly. After retirement, she spent her time taking care of her family, and helping others whenever and wherever she was needed. She served on various committees and boards, including Calhoun County Library Board, and CASA.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, Allen “Tater” Watson, son Chuck Watson (Carmon) of Magnolia, daughter Jamie Shoemaker of North Little Rock, grandchildren Hannah Shoemaker (fiancé Garret Baldwin), Grant Shoemaker, Talynn Watson and Charlie Watson, and sister, Charla Wright (Billy) of Harrell, Arkansas.

Funeral service was 2:00 pm, Thursday, February 23, 2023 at Harrell United Methodist Church with burial to follow in Neal Cemetery. All services are under the direction of Frazer’s Funeral Home.  

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Life Touch Hospice 2301 Champagnolle Rd, El Dorado, Arkansas 71730. You can also go directly to the Share Foundation website to the Donate Now tab. Please note that it is in memory of Nealya Van Watson.

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