Rensselaer- Mary Elizabeth Nelson, 79, passed away Monday, May 24, 2021.
Mary was the daughter of the late William and Leemra (Sartin) Shelton.
A loving wife and mom, she was small in stature but a giant in faith, love, boldness, and service to the Lord.
Mary is survived by her husband of 60 years William G. Nelson Sr.; son William G. Nelson Jr, (daughter-in-law) Lisa Nelson, daughter Tanya Early, (son-in-law) William Early, daughter Toni Nelson, daughter Terri Rappold, 4 Grandchildren, 3 Great-Grandchildren and many Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.
Mary graduated from Manassas High School in Memphis Tennessee in 1959, and Empire State College in 1979 with an Associate in Science diploma. She built a career in the field of data processing and worked as Data Processing Supervisor at Professional Insurance Agency in Glenmont NY. While her career was very important to her, her greatest passions were raising and serving her family, and serving the Lord.
Mary was very active in serving within the churches that she attended. She volunteered to lead a ministry called Mary's Pantry at Christ's Church in Guilderland NY, and at age 73, volunteered to minister to the youth of the Faith and Love Fellowship Church in Rensselaer, NY. She also assisted with the media presentations during services there.
She had a "spicy boldness" about her that one simply could not forget, and memories of her faith, wisdom, and love for her family will always be cherished.
She is predeceased by her parents William and Leemra (Sartin) Shelton, sisters Ernestine Shelton, and Ethel Leatherwood, and brother Joseph Shelton.
She leaves in mourning her sister Sara Lee Lewis of Memphis Tennessee.
Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 2, 2021 from 10am to 12pm at:
Abounding Grace Christian Church
3060 Hamburg Street
Schenectady, New York 12303
Flower donations can be delivered to Abounding Grace Christian Church as well.
Memorial contributions may be made to Grassroots Givers https://www.grassrootgivers.org/
A memorial service will begin at 12pm. Interment will follow at:
Graceland Cemetery
680 Delaware Ave
Albany, New York 12209