Nelva Jean Whiteside, age 80, of Long Branch, Texas, passed away on Sunday afternoon, December 14, 2025, in Carthage, Texas. She was born on January 21, 1945, in Nacogdoches, Texas, to the late John D. Harris and Brooksie Alice Armstrong Harris. Jean graduated from Carthage High School with the Class of 1963 and continued her education at Tyler Commercial College, where she earned a business certificate. She devoted 25 years of faithful service to Panola County, retiring in 2007 as Tax Assessor/Collector. Jean was a member of Mt. Calvary Baptist Church. She was known for her dedication to her work, her church, and her family. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husbands, Steven Whiteside and Ed Smith, and her brothers, John Harris and Rick Harris.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Robin Whiteside and Sheri Whiteside, and her grandson, Chais Whiteside.

Cremation arrangements have been entrusted to Jimerson-Lipsey Funeral Home.

A guestbook may be signed at www.jimerson-lipsey.com.