Nellie Dishman

It is with deep sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Nellie Gray (Heath) Dishman that passed away peacefully on the morning of July 25th 2026 at the age of 95.

She was born June 23, 1931, the 17th and youngest child of the late James Richard Heath and Georgia (Thomas) Heath of Lodi, VA. Nellie was predeceased by all of her siblings which consisted of 10 sisters and 6 brothers.

Nellie was happily married to the late James F "Frank" Dishman Sr for 43 years until his passing in 1991. Together they raised 7 children (5 sons; James Jr (deceased 2024), Michael, Norman, Douglas and Jerry as well as 2 daughters, Linda (deceased June 2026) and Marlene. Nellie and Frank had 10 beloved grandchildren, Missy, Brandy, Erin, Erica, Jonathan, Megan, Morgan, Autumn (deceased 2023) Zachary and Rory . In addition she is survived by 22 of 23 Great-grandchildren and 7 Great-Great Grandchildren. She is survived by several daughter-in-laws, nieces, nephews and their children.

Nellie and Frank resided in North Collins NY where they raised their 7 children. Over the decades, She and her husband loved the large family gatherings of their children and grandchildren . They resided in Western NY for over 40 years until she moved to GA to be close to 3 of her children as a widow.

Nellie was a devout Christian woman that devoted her entire life around God, Church, Faith based services and activities. She led and participated in many Bible studies and prayer groups. She assisted in Church Youth groups, taught Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, Church Camps and helped faith based charity events and Missionaries. While raising her children she worked in retirement homes, the World Famous Kazoo Factory, High School Cafeteria and as a waitress. She survived her life long husband and remained a widow for 35 years. She remained involved with Senior Citizen activity as well as Red Hat Society, church groups, Bible and prayer meetings and charity events into her 90s. She enjoyed shopping and had a life long love of photographs that she loved to surround herself with even up until her passing that provided the memories of love, comfort and happiness throughout her life. She lived independent until she was 91.

She loved Southern cooking and the delight of Southern food . Both she and her husband loved the act of giving and helping others throughout their life. Many friends, family and strangers were grateful for the charity that she and her husband generously gave with groceries, clothing, money and necessities without ever asking, even though they were raising a large family themselves. Strangers took an instant liking to her friendly smile, Southern Charm and wisdom . Like her husband she was an avid reader up until her death. Nellie also wrote poetry and short stories that were published in various publications and won several poetry awards. At the remarkable age of 94 she penned a song that has a 'demo' and is awaiting distribution. Nellie and her husband Frank were loyal life long Buffalo Bills fans for decades in Western New York where they both lived for 39 years even though their roots were Appalachian. She was a positive minded person and never harbored ill will toward anyone. She was an honest person and a treasure to those that had the pleasure of meeting and being around her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith and resilience that will be fondly missed. We will remember Nellie lovingly knowing she is now united with her Savior and loved ones she patiently waited to join as she watches over and prays for us all. Nellie touched the lives of many, her family and her friends will hold the memory of her close and cherish her place in our lives forever.

Arrangements by Poole Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Woodstock, GA. https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/woodstock-ga/nellie-dishman-12981082

A private family memorial service will be held on Sunday September 20th at the North Collins Cemetery, where she will be interred next to her husband James Dishman. She was a widow for 35 years and moved to Georgia in 1993. She will finally be 'home'.