Laura 'Punkin' Nelson, 82, Gladstone, Missouri, went to be with the Lord on May 23, 2017 at St. Luke's Hospital, surrounded by her loved ones. She was born September 29, 1934 in Nashville, Tennessee to Lonnie and Amie (Johns) Chatman. Laura moved to Danville, Illinois where her uncle the Rev. H.P. Miller resided, and joined Antioch Baptist Church. Here she became a foster parent; worked in a group home for adolescents as a cook; attended Danville Area community College GED Program and met the love of her life Mr. Fred D. Nelson who, along with a son, preceded her in death. Laura once again decided to make a move after her husband's death and moved to Pontiac, Michigan with her daughters to start another chapter in her life. In 1980, Laura decided to make yet another start on her map of life and moved to Gladstone, Missouri. She became a faithful member of Boone Tabernacle Church of God in Christ, under the leadership of Bishop L.F. Thuston. She continued eighteen years of service for the Foster Grandparent Program. Laura loved working with children as she had a passion for their little hearts. She volunteered as an aide with her grandchildren through their elementary. Laura loved her family and loved gathering with them. This was truly her hearts compassion. Her hobbies were cooking, sewing and attending church. Left to cherish her memory are: her daughters, Brenda Nelson and Dr. Sarita Graham (Gregory); four grandchildren, Darian Graham, Gregory Graham, Jr., Steven Jones and Le'Aron Jones; two great grandchildren, Isiah Michael and Alliyah Johnson; two brothers, Lawrence Parker (Nyrita) and David Parker; two sisters, Geraldine Hooser and Elouise Livingston (Oscar); special aunt, Mrs. Alice Harper; special cousins, Elizabeth Allen, Dallas Hall, Eva Luster (departed) and Allan Haskins (Betty); three spiritual children, Lonnie Hill (Dorene), Genella McCurn and Constance Rogers; a host of other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be Tuesday, May 30, 1:00 p.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Interment White Chapel Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. at the chapel. Services conducted by Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors. Condolences may be shared on our website.