Mary Nelson was the embodiment of a teacher and artist, always with a quick wit and a heart of gold. Her influence on her students, friends, and family has been profound. She was a fierce advocate for her family and friends, as well as for the Redskins, the Braves, Roger Federer & Serena Williams, and any team playing for the University of Virginia. Her love of pets was obvious as she never was without a pet either adopted or found, and the feeling was mutual!
She rarely found a situation unworthy of a joke, a child or animal undeserving of a wave, or a sales clerk with a long line unfit for an even longer story. Her curiosity was insatiable, resulting in many long nights on the computer researching an incredibly wide range of topics. That included her interest in genealogy, something she shared with quite a few family members. It's also hard to imagine that very many Facebook posts escaped her view. World travel was a passion in her younger days but later in life she considered getting lost to be a grand adventure. She got a lot of practice.
No matter how many challenges and tragedies she faced she always considered herself lucky. Whenever she lost someone she always kept the memory of them very close to her. They remained a part of her life. I am certain many of us will also keep her alive.
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The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, physical therapists, and others who provided her great care at Bon Secours Memorial General and Encompass Health. Their compassion for her and us was always felt clearly.
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You may honor Mary Nelson with donations to
Room to Read or the
American Humane Society
