Obituary

Nellie Verne Bickham

October 22, 1947 ~ March 24, 2026

Nellie Verne Bickham was born on October 22, 1947, to the late Otis Bickham and Regina Miller Bickham. 

She received her early education at Washington Elementary School in Franklinton, Louisiana, and later graduated from Vernon High School in Mount Hermon, Louisiana.

Nellie began working at an early age in Buras, Louisiana, following Hurricane Betsy. She later relocated to New Orleans, where she built a long and dedicated career. Before joining the Regional Transit Authority (RTA), where she faithfully served for 29 years and 9 months until her retirement, Nellie worked at the Felix Factory and as a nurse's assistant at Methodist Hospital. Even after retiring, she continued to serve her community by working as a driver for the Council on Aging, helping transport seniors to and from activities.

In 1996, Nellie became a devoted member of First Agape Baptist Church under the leadership of Minister Dianne Pellerin and Pastor Eddie Payne. She was a faithful servant who actively participated in Sunday School, helped transport fellow members to worship services, cared for senior and shut-in members, and prepared breakfast for youth Sunday School participants.

Nellie was a true servant at heart-always willing to lend a helping hand. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering compassion will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Otis and Regina Bickham; three sisters, Carolyn Bickham, Linda Bickham, and Jane Price; and seven brothers, Charlie, Dexter, Kenneth, Larry, Hedrick, Otis, and Lawrence Bickham.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved son, Darrick (Michaleen) Bickham; three grandchildren, Jasmine (Kornell) Swatt, Brandy (Felix) Mari-Bonilla, and Terrance McGowan; eight great-grandchildren; two sisters, Majoria Robert of Mount Hermon, Louisiana, and Shirlon Bickham of Ocala, Florida; one aunt, Vernell Rushing of Franklinton, Louisiana; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Viewing will be Saturday, April 11, 2026 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Plainview Church or Christ Holiness, 24649 Vernon School Road, Mount Hermon, LA 70450. A Celebration of Life will follow at 10:00 AM. 

The family is being cared for by Affordable Funeral Home.