Nella Ray Pich, age 95, of Hazen, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2026. She was born on August 18, 1930, in Des Arc, Arkansas, to the late Arthur and Arvallie Boatman.
Nella lived a life centered on faith, family, friendship, and community. She was a longtime member of First Baptist Church in Hazen and was actively involved for many years with the Elsie McCain Club. She loved her hometown of Hazen and cherished the many friendships she formed throughout her lifetime. Nella often spoke fondly of her childhood and memories growing up in Des Arc.
She found great joy in working in her yard, shopping, staying busy, and spending time with family and friends. Nella was always active and on the go. Whether tending to her flowers, visiting with friends, attending community activities, or helping others, she rarely sat still and enjoyed making the most of every day. Her energy, independence, and nature will be remembered by all who knew her.
Nella is survived by her beloved husband of 62 years, Albert “Sonny” Pich; her step daughter Louann Leslie (Sam Leslie), daughter-in-law, Joy Phifer; her granddaughters, Shelly Vaughan (Brent Vaughan) and Kimberly Richey (Ryan Richey); her great-grandchildren, Amanda Nalley, Kevin Nalley, Bailey McDaniel, and Lily Richey; and her great-great-grandchildren, Blakely McDaniel, Brayden Nalley, Collins Nalley, and Jaxson McDaniel.
She was preceded in death by her son, Thomas Phifer, Jr.; her first husband, Thomas Phifer, Sr.; her parents, Arthur and Arvallie Boatman; her three sisters and one brother.
The family would like to express a special thank you to Chambers Health and Rehabilitation for the care and love she received while there.
Services for Nella will be Monday, June 29th, 2026 held at First Baptist Church in Hazen, Arkansas with Visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M. until 1:30 P.M and funeral service immediately following at 1:30 P.M. Interment will be in Center Point Cemetery in Hazen, Arkansas.
Arrangements are entrusted with Westbrook Funeral Home of Hazen, Arkansas.