Nellie Maka'alaokalani Watson Bucasas' Obituary
Nellie Maka'alaokalani Watson Bucasas
July 2, 1954 – January 31, 2026
Nellie Maka'alaokalani Watson Bucasas, 71, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, in Salt Lake City, Utah. She was the heart and soul of her family and a force of nature to everyone who knew her. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, as one of twelve siblings (later joined by two more through adoption), Nellie learned early how to shine in a crowd—and she never dimmed her light.
Following her deep faith, Nellie served the Lord as a full-time missionary in the North Dakota Rapid City Mission from 1977 to 1979. Upon her return, she began a new chapter of love and devotion. On September 12, 1979, she was sealed for time and all eternity to her devoted husband, William Bucasas, in the Hawaii Temple.
Shortly after their marriage, while the couple began building their 46-year journey together, Nellie completed her education at BYU–Hawaii, graduating with her Associate Degree in Secretarial Science. Their life together, which spanned from the islands to the mountains, was a testament to enduring love, faith, and mutual support.
We express our deepest gratitude for Nellie’s unwavering loving kindness; she had a rare gift for making everyone feel seen, special, and truly loved. Nellie will be remembered for her incredible strength, her fighting spirit, and her beautiful singing voice. She was famous for her "cackle"—a laugh so powerful it could shake the whole house and, as her family often joked, shatter the windows.
She is now joyfully reunited with her beloved parents, Gilman Kimo "Jimmy" Watson and Zelii Kapaahu Niau Watson. She is survived by her husband, William; her children, Ryan-James, Robert, Zelii (Skylar), Elizabeth (Catalina), Joshua, and Benito Urban; and her six cherished grandchildren: Kiana, Chancy, Nellie, Skylii, Arya, and Raiden. She also leaves behind her siblings: Sharon, Rudy, Randy, Yolanda, James Jr., Jesse, Puanani, Moana, Harold, Nelson, David, Theodora, and Shelley.
On Saturday afternoon, Nellie took her last breath; she is now flying with the angels. While the space beside William felt empty the following morning, we find peace imagining her glorious, joyful passage through the veil. We live in the certain hope that when it is our turn to return home, Nellie will be among the first to welcome us with open arms.
Celebration of Life Services
Thursday, February 26
• Viewing: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: LDS Chapel, 6350 S. Rodeo Lane, Murray, Utah 84121
Friday, February 27
• Final Viewing: 10:00 AM – 11:45 AM
• Funeral Services: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Interment: 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM (Murray City Cemetery, 5490 S. Vine St.)
• Luncheon: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM (LDS Chapel Cultural Hall)
A Note on the Luncheon: The Relief Society is providing a light lunch. In the spirit of aloha, we invite those who are able to bring a side dish or treat to share. A Zoom link will be provided for those who wish to join the celebration services virtually.
Mahalo for helping us honor our sweet Nellie.
What’s your fondest memory of Nellie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Nellie?
Share a story where Nellie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Nellie you’ll never forget.
How did Nellie make you smile?