Nelle A. Trate

Nell A. Trate, 70, of Milton, also known to those she loved as: Mom, Yaya, Neala, and Nell from hell, became stardust on September 25 2024, at Evangelical Hospital. 

She was born on October 29, 1953, a daughter of the late H. Jerome Grafius and the late Lena K. (Tompkins) Grafius. Although she usually chose to celebrate her birthday on Halloween, her favorite holiday. 

Nell was a graduate of Milton High School in 1971, after which she attended York Academy of Art. In 1989, she graduated with honors, earning a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Prince George’s Community College, and a love for Raku pottery. 

Nell devoted her time to art, gardening, theater, and most of all her grandchildren. She also was a fabulous cook, and although she left behind several books filled with her special recipes, most will never turn out the same as when they were made by her. 

Ever a crusader, Nell used her life lessons, skills and many talents, for the betterment of others and strived to harm none. However, at times she could be stubborn and preferred to be the one in charge. 

Nell is survived by her husband of 26 years, Shawn F. Trate of Milton. She is also survived by her sisters, Mary Morgan of New Columbia (husband Chuck) and Margy Justick of Bloomsburg (husband Joe). Her three children, Shawn Grafius of Lewisburg, Sarah Williard of Mifflinburg, and Seth Welton of Berwick (wife Nancy), and her grandchildren, Nokomis, Damaris, Ulrik, and preceded in death by Dante. 

A memorial service for Nell will be conducted at 11 a.m., Saturday, October 5, at the Roupp Funeral Home, Inc., 8594 Old Turnpike Road, Mifflinburg. 

In remembrance of Nell’s life and love, the family asks in lieu of flowers, that any charitable donations be made to Camp Koala, 94 Chestnut St., Mifflinburg PA 17844.

Leave your condolences online at www.rouppfuneralhome.com.