Mildred Nuckles

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Mildred Ray Nuckles, 90, went to Heaven to meet her beloved family Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2008, at Sikeston Convalescent Center, after a lengthy illness.

She was born May 7, 1918, near Blodgett, Mo., daughter of the late John and Nannie Fritts Winders.

Nuckles attended Blodgett School and was a member of North Acres General Baptist Church, where she attended faithfully until her health failed. She had been employed in manufacturing during her early years. She retired in 1983 from employment in food service with Southeast Missouri State University.

She married Russell Lee Smith Nov. 25, 1936, at Benton, Mo. He preceded her in death Nov. 21, 1976. She later married Ulyless Floyd Nuckles Aug. 16, 1983, in Marion, Ky. He preceded her in death April 30, 1985.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Milam Winders, and her twin brother, Milford Winders; two nieces, Marjorie Richards and Marilyn Bean.

Survivors include a sister, Lee Esther Lee of Sikeston; a sister-in-law, Blanche Winders of Charleston, Mo.; three nephews, Jeff Winders of Sikeston, John Winders of North Carolina, Kenneth Winders of Evansville, Ind.; several great-nieces and great-nephews; great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews; special friends, Warren and Jewel Harber, Margaret Helen Klingel Jackson and family; and many other friends and neighbors.

Visitation is from 11 a.m. until time of service at 2:30 p.m. today at Ponder Funeral Home. The Rev. David Richbourg, pastor of Hooe Baptist Church, will officiate, assisted by the Rev. Steve Tippen, pastor of North Acres General Baptist Church. Burial will follow in New Morley Cemetery at Morley, Mo.

Memorial contributions may be sent to North Acres General Baptist Church, 202 Kennedy Drive, Sikeston, Mo., 63801.