Bertha Bell (Nelson) Edwards

Bertha Edwards, 93, of Fort Walton Beach, FL, passed away February 15, 2025, at her home.  Bertha was born on September 25, 1931, in Holley, FL, to Nels Gustaf Nelson and Alma Jordan Nelson.  

On Christmas Day 1951, she married her beloved husband, Nick Edwards.  She worked in the Okaloosa County School System as a teacher’s assistant until her retirement on June 4, 1992. Bertha had a great church family at First Baptist Church for over 60 years.  She taught Sunday school, worked in the nursery and helped with VBS all while enjoying adult Bible study with lifelong friends.  She missed not attending worship over the past year due to health issues.  

Bertha was preceded in death by her husband, Nick; her youngest son, Dale; parents, Nels and Alma; brothers, Cranford, N.G., Kenneth, F.N., and Darrell; sisters, Trudell, Tillie, and Orie.  She is survived by her sons, Don (Wanda), Mark (Helen), and Scott (Julie); and daughter, Jana (Wally); sisters, Christine, Gussie (Dewey), and Audrey; nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Rejoice with us as a wonderful wife and great mother was welcomed by the Lord Jesus Christ. A funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach, on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 11 am with Pastor Jeff Keeman officiating and interment to follow at Beal Memorial Cemetery.  The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 10 am at the church.