MENDOTA - Jean Nelson, 88, passed away on March 19, 2019 after a long battle with progressive dementia. She died peacefully with her loving family by her side.

Graveside services will be held at noon on Saturday, March 30 at Dundee Township East Cemetery, Dundee. Merritt Funeral Home, Mendota handled the arrangements.

Jean was born May 29, 1930. She married her teenage sweetheart, James Alfred Nelson, on Feb. 8, 1948 in Jonesboro.

Survivors include her husband, James; three sons, Gary (Peggy) Nelson, Edward Nelson and Bob (Natalie) Nelson; one daughter, Brenda (Rick) Lietzow; a daughter-in-law, Barb Nelson; two sisters, Virginia (Eddie) Emmons and Deborah Hamilton Lawson; two brothers, Keith Mabry and Paul Mabry; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one son, Boyd Nelson; and two grandchildren, Nefretiri Nelson and Donna Nelson.

Jean was a loving wife, nurturing mother and a great friend. With a heart of gold and the sense of compassion, she lived and loved her life to the fullest. She was known as the neighborhood chef - anyone could come over and she would fix them something to eat. She loved sitting at the table listening to their stories and giving advice if asked. She would always get excited when a party or holiday would come up because this meant she would see her family with all their children. She loved watching all the kids grow up. Of course, they would always be taller than her since she was only 4-feet 9-inches tall. After raising her five children, Jean began her career delivering photos to all Jewel/Osco stores for 15 years and decided to move her social skills to selling Avon, which she did very successfully for 10 years. Her previous work experience prepared her for becoming a compassionate caregiver for over 20 years. Her family found it ironic that she would care for people who were younger than her, but she loved visiting her clients and learning about their lives. We are deeply blessed with all you gave and will miss you dearly.

Memorials may be directed to the family.