Gladys Vernell Griffin Peavy

Gladys Vernell “Nell” Griffin Peavy, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother (affectionately known as Nana) and cherished member of her community, departed this world on May 13, 2025, at the age of 89. Nell was born January 15, 1936 to the late Samuel C. and Willie G. Griffin and lived a life that was woven with love, faith, and an unwavering dedication to her family and friends.

Nell began her professional journey as the bookkeeper for the local Sears and Roebuck in Selma. However, it was her transition to motherhood that truly defined her legacy. With grace and a nurturing spirit, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her children and grandchildren, finding joy in their laughter and creativity. Even after undergoing an operation for an artificial hip, she could still be found playing on the floor, engaging in tea parties and building block towers with her great-grandchildren. These simple yet profound moments embodied her boundless love and unwavering support.

A proud graduate of Uniontown High School in 1954, Nell married her high school sweetheart, Billy, while still a student. Their love story began in their youth and flourished for an incredible 67 years, marked by companionship and shared dreams. Together, they created a home that was a sanctuary, one that Billy lovingly built with the help of friends. It was within these walls that they nurtured a family rooted in love, respect, and faith.

Nell was not only a devoted wife and mother but also a remarkable Bible teacher. Her passion for sharing the teachings of faith made a lasting impact on many women in the Selma community. An active member of Westwood Baptist Church, she instilled her faith in others while serving as a confidant and prayer warrior. There was never a person she met who did not benefit from her warmth and wisdom. With an exceptional ability to engage in meaningful conversations, Nell was a secure friend and a steadfast listener, always keeping the secrets of those who confided in her.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Peavy; daughter, Belinda Ann Peavy siblings, Sammie Gene Griffin, Audrey Laverne Griffin Squires Riley, William Daniel Griffin, Roland Vernon Griffin and Charles Leon Griffin.

She is survived by her daughter, Wanda Gayle Peavy (Bradley) Arnold; granddaughters, Jennifer Brooke Arnold (Bartholomew) Robinson and Katherine Michelle Arnold (Jonathan) Loyd and five great-grandchildren, Allie, Brayden, Cooper, Julia and Elizabeth and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma with Bro. Bruce Squires officiating. Interment will follow at New Live Oak Cemetery. Visitation will begin at the funeral home at 10:00 a.m., one hour prior to the service.

The family will accept flowers, or you may consider making memorial donations to the Special Olympics; at specialolympics.org