Shirley Jean Nelson

Nelson, Shirley Jean , age 92, of Hermitage, died on September 19, 2022. Born in Nashville, the daughter of Leslie Lane and Johnnie Castleman Lane, Jean, as she was known to everyone, is survived by her only daughter, Connie Nelson, and son-in-law, David Van der Wal, with whom she lived the last six years of her life. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Arthur C. Nelson, her parents, and her brothers, Jimmy and Richard Lane.

A popular cheerleader and graduate of Donelson High, Jean later continued her education in real estate and finance at North Lake College in Dallas, becoming a successful Realtor in Grapevine, Texas.

Jean and her husband, Art, enjoyed a comfortable retirement traveling around the world, their lifelong dream, often with Connie and David. They were avid golfers for many years. Jean even got a hole-in-one earning her some notoriety and a photo in the local paper.

Jean was a member of St. George’s Episcopal Church, the Donelson-Hermitage Y, the American Legion Auxiliary, John A’s infamous “Black Widows”, trivia team, The Preds, which met Thursday nights, and a member of the “sausage club”, friends who met Saturday mornings at Hardee’s.

As those who loved her will attest, Jean was passionate about people, life, friends and family and her faith in God. She was also passionate about music. Her taste was eclectic. From country and bluegrass to gospel to classical and opera, she attended the Nashville Symphony, and was a regular at The Station Inn and at Homegrown, following close friend Roland White and his band. She could be seen at Nadeen's once a month supporting Connie, David, and close musician friend, Cris Moore, in their band, Another Morning. She was their biggest groupie, following them wherever they played in Nashville and Muscle Shoals.

Loving wife, mother, philanthropist, and friend, Jean never met a stranger. She will be remembered for her smile, her generosity, her beautiful spirit, and her wonderful sense of humor which she maintained until the end.

Friends and family are invited to a memorial at Bond Memorial Chapel, 1098 Weston Dr, Mt. Juliet, TN 37122, Saturday, November 5, 2022. Harp prelude while gathering begins at 12:30 p.m. Service begins promptly at 1:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be made at stjude.org or by check to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929.

Arrangements by Bond Memorial Chapel, N. Mt. Juliet Road and Weston Drive, Mt. Juliet, TN. (615) 773-2663. www.bondmemorial.com