Carla Neel Rawson
December 16, 1951 ~ September 8, 2023
Carla Neel Rawson, age 71, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on September 8, 2023. She was born on December 16, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to parents Frederick Travis Neel and Genevieve Batavia Hill Neel. Carla spent her 71 years enriching the lives of those around her with her love, compassion, and faith.
Carla was a proud graduate of Indiana Purdue, where she obtained a bachelor's degree in interior design. Her innate sense of style and creativity also led her to become a self-taught jewelry designer. Her unique pieces won several state awards, reflecting her talent and dedication to her craft. Carla's artistic abilities were not confined to her professional life; they were also evident in her interests and hobbies.
An active member of the First Baptist Church in Palestine, Texas, Carla's faith was integral to her life. She was known for her compassion and her unfailing encouragement of others. Her faith-filled life was an inspiration to many within her community and beyond. She lived her life with an unwavering belief in the redemptive love of Jesus, a love she passionately shared with everyone she encountered. Her zeal for life was matched only by her devotion to spreading the message of salvation. Carlas's life serves as a reminder that we too can find our hope in Jesus.
Carla's life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of faith, and the beauty of compassion. She may no longer be with us in person, but her influence will resonate in the hearts of her loved ones forever. We celebrate her life and honor her memory, cherishing the time we had with her and the love she shared with us.
She joined her parents Frederick and Genevieve Neel in Heaven.
Carla was married to the love of her life, Ken Rawson, for 52 years, 5 months, and 6 days. Their love story was one of enduring commitment and mutual respect, setting a beautiful example for their children and grandchildren. Together, they raised three wonderful children: Kevin Rawson, Kenneth Rawson, and Erin Newman, who is married to Justin. Carla was a devoted mother who nurtured her children with love and instilled in them the values of kindness and respect for others.
She is also survived by her brothers, Steve Neel and wife Marilyn, and Gregg Neel and wife Lezlee. Carla cherished spending time with her family. Her love extended to her four grandchildren, Georgia Grace, Annabelle Rose, Ruby Elizabeth, and Justus Clement. To them, she was their beloved "Mimi," who poured her heart and soul into their lives, creating a bond that will forever be remembered.
Carla's life will be celebrated with a memorial service to honor her on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at eleven o'clock in the morning, at First Baptist Church in Palestine, Texas. In accordance with her wishes, Carla will be cremated.
Friends are invited to share memories of Carla with the family one hour prior to the start of the service at First Baptist Church Palestine.
Cremation and memorial services for Carla Neel Rawson are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas.
We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with her family by selecting the "Share a Memory" icon.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Photo Gallery
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Such a sweet soul, great Mom and wonderful artist… you were always amazing to me, even when Erin and I were putting you through the paces. I cant help but think that you and my Mother are having one of yalls lunch meetings now, talking about your girls and all they are up to, comparing notes, and figuring out how to help from up above. It is never goodbye, just until we meet again….
She was the kindest and “bestest†encourager I’ve ever met in my life. Her notes took you straight to the feet of Jesus.
Carla was such a sweet friend I met her when I started going to first Baptist Palestine. She became an instant friend to me. She’s sent me some beautiful cards praying for my family. I also went to lunch with and had great conversations. She will be greatly missed. I know one day we will meet again. Love you Carla🥰! Crystal Spicer!
So sorry for your loss. Keeping you in my thoughts and heart.
She was one of the kindest and gentlest persons. A person to admire for all the wonderful joy she brought into this world. I shall miss her very much,
Carla was such a kind person. She will certainly be missed until we all reunite. We send our prayers and love to all of her family.
Mrs. Rawson was always present in my life as she was a fixture at FBC Palestine. Sadly, it wasn’t until adulthood that I valued that presence. I could always count on connecting with her at Linda Love’s famous Christmas Eve party where I experienced her unique gift of intention as she asked questions about my previous year. I’m certain we all experienced her gift of intention and I’m certain we will all miss her.
I met Carla when I went to work at Neel Jewelers. She was always so kind and such a talented lady. We developed a friendship that has lasted through the years. I was always welcomed with a smile and hug when I would see her around town. She, Thelma Carpenter and I had lunch several months ago and so enjoyed sharing old memories. I will miss her so much. Love to Ken and family. Praying for all of you.
Carla was one of a kind. She was always so gentle and kind, always gave the sweetest hugs and had the most beautiful smile. I remember her in my younger years at Neel’s when she helped me pick out my wedding band, It wasn’t until years later that I got to truly know her through her friendship with my mother. She will be so missed and we love her very much. Love and prayers are being sent to her wonderful family.
One of the most beautiful woman I have ever met, inside and out. She loved her husband, her family, and Jesus. She is in the presence of her creator.
Carla and Ken have been wonderful friends for many years. We are deeply saddened by the loss of her. Prayers for their family.
Carla and Ken are a testimony of Godly servants
Our prayers are with the family
Carla was a sweet, sweet lady with a beautiful smile always. Loved visiting with her in the store. I am so sorry for your loss. She will be missed by so many folks.
I wear the beautiful opal and diamond ring Carla designed for me many years ago – every day. Such a lovely lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
I didn’t know Carla but I do know her husband. I am sooo sorry for the loss of your loved one. My prayers go out to you and your family.
My sincere condolences and prayers to Carla’s entire family . She was truly a kind and compassionate woman and loved it daily. She truly will be missed by everyone she met. I extend those prayers to the Neel family who also showed the same Christian qualities as Carla. What a legacy she leaves behind to be treasured by her family. Prayers and love to the family. Let God wrap each in His arms and hold you tight. I met Carla many years back when I worked for Bob and Jane Henderson, and we also had Bible studies. The entire Neel family are wonderful people.ðŸ™ðŸ™
My sincere condolences to family and friends.A very sad day.
My sincerest condolences to Carla’s entire family. May the Holy Sprit of our Savior provide comfort and ease your hearts pain.
I will MISS my big Sis….She will be missed by Many…..
Ken im so sorry to read this passing of your wife. She was truly an enjoyable person to be around. Her smile would lighten up any dark room. We had may good times sharing art classes together. It was such a pleasure to have known her. Sorry i I won’t be able attend the service. I will be out of town. Will be praying for you Ken. Live you brother.
I am sorry brother to hear this information of your wife to be called by God. I know every one knows how many days passed but no one knows how many days remaining for him or her. As the bible says we are here on earth as visitors but
Our permanent home is in heaven. Let our sister in Christ Rest in peace. Brother you and all of us phyisicaly we are so sorry but Spiritually we will meet her if we will not faint.
May our almighty God comfort you all through the presence of the Holy Spirit
Yours in Christ
Pastor Aminely Buromela
Murubona Baptist Church
Kigoma Tanzania
What a blessing to have called this precious woman friend.
What a blessing to have called this precious woman friend.
Carla was a great person, and I will always remember her smiling face when I visited Neel’s Jewelry Store. She was always so gracious and kind. Prayers to her family in this time of loss, and Heaven gained a beautiful Angel.