Bertha L. Nelson, 87, of King Avenue, New Castle, passed away the afternoon of November 5, 2013 at Jameson Hospital. Born April 19, 1926 in New Castle, she was the daughter of Carl and Susan Elsie Staeber Leonard. She was preceded in death on June 22, 1994 by her husband of 46 years, Robert L. Nelson, whom she married on April 28, 1948. Bertha was a graduate of New Castle High School in 1945 and Shadyside Nursing School in 1947. She was employed as a registered nurse in 1958 at Jameson Hospital until her retirement in 1982. Prior to Jameson Hospital, she was a private duty nurse. Among her many interests were bird watching, jig saw puzzles and card club. She was a member of Wimodausis. Bertha was very active in many of the church functions at Croton United Methodist Church where she was a member. Survivors include four daughters, Carla S. (Thom) Hancox of New Wilmington, Kathy L. Davis of New Castle, Bobbie (David) Simmons of Independence, MO, and Deborah Burns of New Wilmington; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Bruce Olenick. Visitation will be held on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2013, from 2:00-4:00 pm and 7:00-9:00 pm at the R. Cunningham Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 2429 Wilmington Road. A funeral service will take place on Friday, Nov. 8, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home and will be officiated by Rev. Nancy K. Shute. Burial will be in Graceland Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Croton United Methodist Church, 910 Croton Avenue, New Castle, PA 16101.