Carlene Nickel Elrod, age 92, passed away suddenly on February 28th, 2025, in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she had moved in 2022 to be closer to family. Martha Carlene Nickel was born on August 5th, 1932, in Atlanta, Georgia, to Col. Louis Francis Nickel and Martha Carlene Morgan. She spent the war years in Greensboro, Georgia, eventually attending Agnes Scott College in Atlanta, where she met her future husband, Lieutenant George M. Elrod. Soon after their marriage, they moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where they lived for 67 years. They raised three sons while living on Cleermont Drive.
Always active in social and civic activities, Carlene made her mark on everything she did. She initiated recycling in Huntsville, was actively engaged in developing the Huntsville Botanical Gardens, led garden clubs, became a Federated Flower Show judge, initiated Beautification Awards, started anti-litter campaigns, and supported land preservation, to name just a few. She enjoyed social gatherings, served on church committees, and so much more. Her many accomplishments are highly regarded by those who can attest to her commitment and service for all she did. She was either leading the way or working diligently in the background to support her many friends and associates. She worked tirelessly to make her hometown beautiful, her friends welcome, and her family loved.
Carlene loved horticulture, flowers, and anything that grew. She was always excited to see what Spring would bring and could tell you each flowering plant’s standard and botanical names and species. A good day for her was being outside, exploring what was growing, and pulling weeds. When asked for the best time to prune a plant, she always said, “Whenever you have the clippers in your hand.”
She had a zeal for life and going to new and exciting places, provided there were gardens to see. She loved her “Cabin” on the lake just as much as her coffee daily with her friends. Whether it was time to herself or being with others, she was always happy doing whatever she was doing, making being with her special. She had a way of seeing the best in everyone and welcomed all.
Most of all, she loved her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was generous, thoughtful, comforting, and loving. Her house was everyone’s “home base”. Carlene has left behind so many whom she has blessed. Her delightful laugh and eternal smile will be with all who knew her.
Carlene was predeceased by her parents, Louis and Martha Nickel, and her husband, George M. Elrod. She is survived by her sister, Laura Friedman; her three children, William “Bill” Elrod (Lori), John Elrod (Deanna), and Robert “Rocky” Elrod (Teresa); her grandchildren, Brandy Elrod, Wes Elrod (Kelly), Erika Elrod, Eli Elrod (Kristi), Lauren LeBlanc (Ray), and Justin Elrod; and her great-grandchildren, Isaac White, Wade Elrod, Derek Elrod, Madison Bauer, and Drayden Elrod.
Funeral services will be held on April 5th at 11 a.m. in the Chapel of First United Methodist Church, 120 Green St., SE Huntsville, Alabama. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. A graveside service will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery, 202 Maple Hill St. SE, Huntsville, AL.
