Nellie Alger

Nellie Alger, a cherished soul whose vibrant spirit illuminated the lives of many, passed away on August 18, 2024, at the age of 85 in Long Beach, California. Nellie Mae DeBell was born on October 19, 1938, in Denver, Colorado, to Vincent (Jim) DeBell and Nellie Myrtle (Pence) DeBell. At about the age of four, her family moved to Los Angeles due to her mother’s poor health. That is where she met her lifetime partner and husband, Larry.

They met as 14-year-olds at a Parks and Recreation dance. The following Monday, Larry asked Nellie to “go steady” with him. Nellie accepted, although she thought he was rather stuck up and was not fond of him, but thought perhaps she could make another boy, Jim, notice her. Jim, however, had no interest in her and so was born a lifetime romance lasting 71 years.

Truly, opposites do attract. The differences in Larry and Nellie’s personalities were demonstrated one morning when, while watching their old box type TV, Nellie said,” I want a new flat screen TV.” Larry replied, “OK, I’ll start researching.” Responded Nellie, “No, I don’t mean 3 months from now, I mean today.” Throughout their lifetime, Nellie gained comfort and security, and Larry learned the joy of doing things spontaneously.

In their early twenties, Nellie and Larry traveled to western Oregon to visit Larry’s biological father. Nellie immediately fell in love with Oregon. During the next 40 years, during which time Nellie’s two sisters moved to Oregon, there were many trips taken. It became her lifetime dream to move there. After retirement, the opportunity presented itself and the Algers started working with a developer to build a home for them. Nellie was so excited. Then, one morning as they were going to put a deposit down, Nellie suddenly said, “We can’t do this.” Larry said, “can’t’ do what?”, and Nellie replied, “God is telling me not to do this now.” “Are you sure it’s God talking to you?”, Larry said. And Nellie said, “I’m sure.” They went and cancelled the purchase and returned home. Five months later Larry was diagnosed with cancer. Another five months went by, and Larry’s mother died unexpectedly. Another two years went by and both of Nellie’s sisters moved away. Nellie never had any remorse over giving up her dream.

A professional cake decorator for many years, Nellie brought sweetness not only to the delightful confections she crafted but also to the many people who were fortunate enough to taste her creations. Her artistic genius found a home in notable establishments like Gelson's Market and Knotts Berry Farm. But her talents did not end there; she flourished in the art of flower arranging, earning a certificate in silk floral arranging from Golden West Community College, a proud accomplishment that highlighted her love for beauty in all forms.

Nellie's home was a canvas of her creativity, tastefully furnished and adorned, exuding an inviting warmth that encapsulated her generous spirit. She had a flair for entertaining, often hosting gatherings that would be filled with laughter and love. Her friends, particularly her dear companion Carla, can fondly recall days spent making cards—a reflection of her artistic soul and an expressway to forge meaningful connections with those around her.

Born with learning difficulties, Nellie was always trying to improve herself. While attending classes in her sixties, she bonded with her teacher Karen, and they became forever friends.

Blessed with beautiful eyes and a sparkling personality, Nellie's allure was undeniable. She could be impetuous, yet this only added to her charm; she approached life with a candidness that drew people to her. Deeply empathetic, she cared profoundly about the feelings of others, embracing friendships with an open heart. 

Nellie's legacy lives on through her loving family, including her devoted husband, Larry Alger, her son Michael Alger and his wife Rita, and her son Keith Alger and his partner Jesus Eder. They were the heart of her world, each moment spent with them a thread woven into the fabric of her existence.

Nellie is preceded in death by her brother, James DeBell, and sisters, Vincene Lawson, and Geri Clipson, who now join her in repose, forever missed yet celebrated in life’s cherished memories.

A niche interment to honor her life will be held on September 17, 2024, at Forest Lawn - Cypress, in Cypress, California. The gathering will begin at 12:30 PM, allowing family to pay their respects to a woman who taught us all the beauty of love, creativity, and the importance of connections in life.

The following Saturday, September 21, 2024, a celebration service of her life will be held for friends and family at Bethany Church, 2250 Clark Ave. Long Beach, CA at 11:AM, followed by a luncheon on the church patio.

As we remember Nellie Alger, may we look back on her life with gratitude, celebrating the colors she brought to our lives—colors that remain etched in our hearts f