Roena Nell Dolden

Roena Nell “Big Mom” Dolden, 89, of Eldorado, passed away Sunday, November 9, 2025, in Eldorado, surrounded by her family. Nell was born May 7, 1936, in Eldorado to the late Jesse and Saleeta Roena (Palmer) Murphy. She married Joseph Dolden, who preceded her in death. A faithful and devoted member of River of Life United Pentecostal Church in Harrisburg, Nell loved attending church and was known as a prayer warrior whose faith guided every part of her life. Nell’s greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother and grandmother who opened her heart and home to many. She is survived by three children: Greg C. (Jane) Dolden of Eldorado; Debrah (Todd Gulley) Bell of Eldorado; and Gail (Jack) Bean of New Haven. Also surviving are two grandchildren she raised as her own, Adam Doldennow of GA and Amanda Dolden who preceded her in death; 16 additional grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; 28 great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Her family will remember her for her unconditional love, encouragement, and steadfast devotion to God. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by four sons: Joseph R. Dolden, Steven L. Dolden, Anthony N. Dolden, and Kevin D. Dolden; six brothers: Bernard Murphy, Jesse Murphy, Donald Murphy, Glen Murphy, Harold Murphy, and Billy Murphy; and six sisters: Rudy Williams, Katie Price, Margaret Mundy, Helen Kelley, Beulah Ingles, and Ethel Barton. Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m. (noon) on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Colonial Terrace Funeral Home in Eldorado with Rev. Fred Wilson officiating. Visitation will be Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in Lindale Cemetery. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family via www.colonialterracefuneralhome.com.