Eleanor Payne Nuckolls passed away on Wednesday, December 10, 2014. She was the youngest of four children born to Solomon Luther Payne and Annie Elizabeth Cox Payne.

Her parents, along with brothers Paul Bryant Payne and Joseph Neal Payne, preceded her in death. A son, Patrick Gene Nuckolls, predeceased her in 2008 as did her husband Gene Clark Nuckolls in 2009.

She is survived by children Gail Elizabeth and husband Bobby Catron, Denver Clark Nuckolls and wife Babette Holder, and Stephen Cox Nuckolls and wife Janice Hall. She is also survived by a sister, Virginia Payne Higgins, four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Through her natural gift of music, Eleanor touched many lives as pianist/organist of First United Methodist Church for over fifty years. She performed at countless weddings and funerals and accompanied various music productions/concerts throughout the years.
Eleanor was a devoted wife and mother who maintained high principles and values and remained tirelessly devoted to her Church and family. She continued to reside on the family farm where she enjoyed watching the wildlife in their natural habitat.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, December 13, 2014 at First United Methodist Church of Galax at 11:00 a.m. Visitation begins at 10:00 a.m. preceding the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the FUMC piano/organ or sanctuary choir fund.