Joann "Mama Jo" Nelson

Our fiery & sweet mother Joann Nelson, affectionately known as "Mama Jo," age 86, passed away on Wednesday, October 12, 2022. She was a wonderful mother, daughter, sister and grandmother to everyone in her life who was always there when we needed her. Joann was born in Forked Deer, Tennessee to her loving parents Anna Beatrice (Ball, “Mama Hall”) and William Robert Hall (“Daddy Bob”).

Always a free and somewhat restless spirit, after graduating High School, Joann left the farm and set off to begin her life of adventure. While still a teenager, with just a few dollars and a suitcase she left for Washington D.C., where she worked in a government office and got a taste of the big city life. She married a military man (Bill Jackman) and traveled abroad to Taiwan and eventually settled in South Florida, where she raised her four children. The highlight of her life was the day she met Rolland Dean Nelson, who she married in 1992. Ron was the love of her life and did everything he could to make sure their life was never boring. Together, they loved to travel and spend time with family and friends. Ron and Joann eventually settled in Quincy, IL. After Ron's passing, Joann moved back to Florida to be closer to her children and grandchildren. Joann's last adventure took her from Florida to Texas. The highlight of her time in Texas were the Thursday night family dinners and games. Joann forever will be remembered as someone who never met a stranger, as it didn't take long after meeting her to feel a life-long connection. She lived a full life and believed you are never too old for a new adventure.

Predeceased in death by her wonderful son Mark Jackman and the love of her life, her husband, Ron. She is survived by her son Scott (Dorothy) Jackman; daughters Tracy Jackman and Kelly Bergel; grandsons, Austin (Katie) Bergel, Clayton (Katherine) Bergel and Hayden (Michellann) Squadrito; great-grandchildren, Rhett Bergel, Lily Bergel and Brooks Bergel; sister Bobby Kee; nieces, Janet (John) Horan, Lyla Odom, Jo Evelyn Kee and Judy Mills; Barbara and Tom Sims, and so many more that knew and loved her.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.stonebriarfh.com for Joann's family.