Shirley Nelson

In Loving Memory of Shirley Jean Nelson

March 4, 1951 – October 28, 2026

Shirley Jean Nelson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 75 years old and leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and a family who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Known affectionately as “Maw Maw” to all those she loved and who loved her, Shirley was a bright light in the lives of her family and friends. Her greatest joy was her family, and there was nothing more precious to her than watching it grow. Every new generation brought her more love, more memories, and more reasons to be proud. Her family was her greatest blessing, and the love she poured into them will continue to live on for generations to come.

Shirley was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Nelson.

She is survived by her two sons, David Nelson and his wife, Corin Nelson, and Rick Nelson and his wife, Connie Nelson. Her sons and their families were a tremendous source of love and pride throughout her life.

Her beloved grandchildren include Nick Nelson and his wife, McKenna Nelson; Savannah and Sydney Nelson; Shelby Hudson and her husband, Matthew Hudson; and MacKenzie Moore. Each of her grandchildren held a special place in her heart and brought her immeasurable joy.

Shirley’s legacy continues through her precious great-grandchildren: Beau Nelson, son of Nick and McKenna Nelson, with another little one, Baker Nelson, soon to arrive; and Millie Hudson, Jack Hudson, and Wren Hudson, children of Shelby and Matthew Hudson. Watching her family grow and seeing the next generation blossom was one of her greatest joys.

Though her passing leaves an immeasurable void, the love Shirley shared will never fade. She will be remembered in the laughter of her grandchildren, in the hugs of her great-grandchildren, in the stories told around the family table, and in the countless little moments that will forever remind her loved ones of her. Her presence may no longer be seen, but her spirit will remain woven into the lives of everyone she touched.

Maw Maw was a bright light whose love will continue to shine every day through everything her family does. Her life was a beautiful reminder that the greatest legacy we leave behind is the love we give and the people we hold dear.

She will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered. Until we meet again, Maw Maw, your love will always be home.

Forever our Maw Maw. Forever in our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 from 10 am - 12 pm at Hendersonville Funeral Home (353 E. Main Street. Hendersonville, Tennessee 37075). The funeral service will begin at 12 noon at the same location. Entombment will follow at 2 pm at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Aveanna Hospice. Checks can be mailed to 131 Saundersville Road, 340 B, Hendersonville, TN 37075.