Mother Mary Merrill Nelson

Mary Merrill Nelson was born on June 11, 1932 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to Robert and Frances Sampson. Mary Nelson obtained her secondary education in Pine Bluff, Arkansas where she graduated high school.

Mary met Burt Howard Nelson, as a young woman and celebrated their love in marriage. They grew throughout the years together for 75 years.

Mary Nelson spent most of her like working professionally as a cook within the most respectable hotels and hospitals in town.

As a member of Mount Hebron, Mary enjoyed spending time in worship and fellowship. She was known to be the Mother of Church Choir and leading the gospel in song.

Mary Nelson was known to be strict mother, who believed in throwing a party! She enjoyed dressing up in her finest hats, wigs, pocketbooks and shoes. Mary enjoyed fishing and going for rides with the children. She liked visiting relatives in Minnesota and Kansas City and taking road trips there. Mary was recognized for being a wonderful cook and being able to cook anything. Some of her specialties are fried chicken, soul food and coconut, chocolate or jelly cakes. She also made candy as a treat! She even made sure to teach all the boys.

Mother Mary Merrill Nelson passed away on March 8th, 2023. She preceded in death by Charlene Nelson, Burt Nelson Jr., Burt Nelson Sr., Jessie, Stan, and Esther Queen.

Left to cherish her in memory are Majer, Earl Nelson, Russell Nelson, Pearl, Mark, Ben, Ira and grand children, along with great grandchildren.