Mary Nell Averett Young

Mary Nell Young passed away at 84 in Raleigh, NC in the care of Val’s Place nursing home on June 4, 2023. She was born on April 7, 1939 in Monroe, Louisiana and grew up in West Monroe and graduated from West Monroe High School. Earning degrees from ULM in Liberal Arts and from Louisiana Tech in General Studies with graduate classes in Criminology.

Nell's life was that of versatility: embracing life in challenging jobs and with all levels of social engagements. At different points she wanted to be a doctor, an artist, a business owner and a preacher. Her dedication to Jesus Christ led to her ordination with Iverna Tompkins Ministry and working with Woman of the Word. With her friend, Janette Daigle, Nell spoke at church groups and prayer meetings, offering support and guidance to those in search of Christ. Further broadening her life experiences, she worked for Dr. Najeeb Klam as a lab technician and histologist. In 1969, Nell married Joe Young, a Monroe native. Throughout her life, she was inspired and active in the art world. She was a dedicated and successfully recognized artist in Louisiana and beyond her home state. Her pen and ink of the Benson Livery Stable is displayed in West Monroe City Hall. She also illustrated the book “Cook With Marie Louise”. As a court room artist, she was active in East Texas and Louisiana. For a few years she was a case worker at City of Faith. She really wanted to help people get back on their feet, find work and live again. Between courtroom artist and case worker, she ran a janitorial service called Grimestoppers. She won bids and worked long hours cleaning banks and insurance offices at night. Her experience helped her later at FMS doing similar work. Nell's sensitive personality as well as her energy and sincerity was uplifting. Her laughter filled a room. Nell did not leave an empty space. She loaded her life with adventure, joy, caring and sharing. It remains an example for us all. Her memory and dedication are and will be an inspiration for many generations.