Myra Street Nelson

Myra Street Nelson, Ph.D., a devoted animal scientist, gifted musician, passionate world traveler and beloved friend to many passed away peacefully at her home on April 23, 2025 at the age of 70.

Born in Chicago, Illinois on June 1, 1954. Myra graduated from Kenwood High School and after graduation she would go on to attend Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee to help navigate her academic goals. She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Biology while also studying Animal Science. Besides the rich education she obtained from Fisk, Myra would pledge Delta Sigma Theta Sorority that would also serve as a catalyst toward her educational development and insight into public service. Myra would move on to receive her Master of Science Degree from Tennessee State-College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences. Addressing the desire to further her education, Myra would continue her training by obtaining a Ph.D from the University of Maryland - College in Philosophy while continuing to pursue studies in Animal Science. It would be unlike Myra to do nothing with her education and skills; she shared much of it by becoming a Behavioral Life Style Educator, (Life Coach), a Certified First Responder and Medical Assistant. Real estate was also one of her interest. As an entrepreneur she created the Prairie Buffalo Native American Trading Company and she also started the Prairie Buffalo Mastiff Kennel.

However, it was the understanding and caring for animals that she saw as a calling and pursued this calling with affection and fervor while being committed to making the world a better place for all living creatures. Her love of animals was matched only by her love of adventure. Myra traveled the world with an open heart and an eager spirit. Always seeking new places, cultures and friendships. Whether on a remote farm, a bustling city street, or a quiet hiking trail. Myra found beauty and wonderment everywhere she went. She also had a deep love for music; her home was often filled with melodic tunes, another way she shared her vibrant spirit.

Those who knew Myra will remember her not only for her brilliant and creative mind and adventurous soul but also for her warm and generous heart. She had a gift for gathering people around her, filling every room with laughter, thoughtful conversation, and a sense of belonging. To be her friend was to be truly cherished.

Myra was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Ralph Nelson; her mother, Marciene Street; and her sister, Dr. Marcy L. Street. She is survived by her loving son, Ryan Nelson; her daughter-in-law, Antonia Nelson; and her cherished partner, Steven Talbot.

She also leaves to mourn her steadfast friend and guardian, Harvey Robinson; two nieces, Dr. Chelsea St.Claire Himelhoch and husband Benjamin Himelhoch (Chelsea’s children, Naomi and Hayes Himelhoch) and Dr. Kayla St. Claire Chapman and husband Max Chapman; her adored pets - five dogs, Enzo, Doc, Inca, Belle, Midnight, her parrots, Mohawk and UNO, and her horse, Darrin. Each a treasured part of her family.

Myra’s family would like to extend special gratitude to Debbie Price for her devotion, support and impeccable caregiving. Debbie exhibited kindness and friendship and truly proved to be a trusted confidant. Her loving care brought great comfort to Myra.

A hearty thanks goes out to Dr. Musgrave and Kim Nichols, the entire staff at the Bristol Cancer Center, Dr. Rocha Lima and staff at Wake Forest Cancer Center, Carrie with Bristol Hospice, Beyond Quality of Life Therapy for their love and great job, to Heather, Jill and Anna and the entire staff.

A memorial service and celebration of Myra’s Life will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, 5:00 pm at the Forest Hills Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 19415 Lee Hwy, Abingdon, Virginia.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to an animal rescue, charity or cause. Information on these facilities will be distributed at the service.

Myra Street Nelson will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all whose lives she touched, both human and animal.

Myra is not gone, she is simply ahead of us.

Where love endures and every beloved creature waits.

The family of Myra Street Nelson, Ph. D., is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service and Crematory, 427 E. Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210.