Avenell "Nell" Turnipseed

Avenell Townsend Turnipseed, 100, passed away quietly in her home outside of Weir, MS Saturday morning, July 23, 2022. Mrs. Turnipseed was born April 8, 1922 in Attala County, MS to Boyd H. and Gracie Lee (Holland) Townsend. She was proceeded in death by her husband Kenneth H. Turnipseed of Weir, parents Boyd and Gracie Townsend of Kosciusko, brothers James A. Townsend of Ackerman and Ralph Townsend of Kosciusko, sister Lucille Townsend Hathcock of Kosciusko, daughter Neicy Turnipseed Burrell of Kosciusko, grandson, David Scott Dodd of Sallis, and granddaughter, Karen Leigh Burrell Phelps. She is survived by her brothers Carl Townsend and Cliff Townsend of Kosciusko, her daughter, Pat Turnipseed Dodd of Sallis, three grandchildren, seven great grandchildren, thirteen great great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends along with her sweet companions, cat Missy and dog Happy.

Miss Nell, as she was referred to by most, was a graduate of Ethel High, school class of 1939. Following graduation, she worked at different cafes and factories in the Kosciusko area. When she married, she moved to Weir and worked alongside her husband in their dairy operation and at various factories in the county. In the 1960's she was employed by Mississippi State Extension as a nutrition aide helping educate impoverished families of Choctaw county on how to prepare nutritious meals using products from the US Commodity Program. Also, during this time she was active with the 4-H program and served as an officer in several organizations. In the 1970's the Turnipseeds moved to Ackerman where Miss Nell opened Nell's Country Kitchen at the intersection of Highway 12 and Highway 15. She cooked for many people there until her husband's death in 1976 at which time she sold the restaurant and moved back to the country. There she sewed and cooked for the public until her late 90's.

Miss Nell was a member of Salem United Methodist Church, several senior organizations when she was able to attend and was an adopted member of Weir Baptist Church. She was an avid reader before her eyesight failed. She loved to cook for her family and friends, and enjoyed growing many varieties of flowers. Miss Nell enjoyed singing and often sang specials in church. Her life was dedicated to her Lord, being His hands and feet to her family, friends and strangers.

She was laid to rest beside her husband Thursday July 27, 2022 at Salem United Methodist Church on Weir Highpoint Road in Choctaw County. Her service was officiated by Jared Busby, pastor of Centerville Baptist Church of New Albany and William Bouchillion, pastor of Weir Baptist Church. Pallbearers were Brooks Ables, Terry Ables, Ben Chambers, Kydorian Truss, Ben Turnipseed, and Lee Turnipseed. Memorials may be sent to Salem United Methodist Church, 4500 Weir McCool Road, McCool, MS 39108.