Jeanette Nelson

Jeanette Martin Nelson, age 79, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026. She was born in Pine Bluff, AR on February 13th, 1946, to the late George Martin, Sr and late Margaree (Bearden) Martin.

She is preceded in death by her brothers Ralph (Bill) Martin, Zelner (Tom) Harris, George (Buddy) Martin Jr., Houston Martin, Joe Allen Martin, Arthur Martin Sr, sisters; Lois Martin Withers, Mary Martin Edwards, Doris Jean Byrd, son in law; Dr, Kenneth Hill II and grandson Khalil Williams.

Her memory will be cherished by her two daughters; Rhonda Fitzgerald (Brian) of Vacaville, CA, Katrina Nelson-Hill of Peoria, AZ, two sons; Tracy Nelson Sr and Victor Nelson both of Evansville, IN; sister Sandra Kaye Martin of Pine Bluff, AR; two brothers, Michael Martin of Pine Bluff, AR and Leon Martin of Prince George, VA. Eighteen grandchildren; Andrew Hughes, Alexandria Jackson, Zion Hill, Lauren Hill, Kenneth Hill III, Tracy Nelson Jr, Devonta Nelson, Dezray Nelson, Joseph Nelson, Victoria Nelson, Viquanna Nelson, Valencia Howard, Victor Wallace-Nelson, Vanisha Wallace-Nelson, Dezanae Randall Nelson, Makayla Randall-Nelson, Janae Nelson. She also leaves behind a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jeanette was a loving mother, and hard-working woman who carried herself with intelligence, and grace. She was known for being highly structured, and deeply principled in all aspects of her life. Above all, Jeanette kept God close to her heart. A faithful Catholic, her strong belief guided her actions, her service to others, and the way she loved her family and community.

Jeanette began her education at Saint Raphael Elementary School, which she attended until the school was tragically destroyed by fire. She later continued her education at Saint Peter School. She went on to attend AM&N College (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff), furthering her commitment to learning and self-improvement. Later in life, Jeanette earned her certification in Computer Automated Drafting from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM).

Jeanette dedicated many years of service to AT&T, originally known as Wisconsin Bell, from which she eventually retired. During her time there, she was actively involved in the company's local softball team, reflecting her team spirit and community involvement. Her faith extended beyond belief into action. Jeanette volunteered with St. Stephen's Church and maintained strong ties to community advocacy efforts, always willing to give her time, and energy, to help others.

At home, Jeanette found joy in caring for her family. She loved cooking meals that brought everyone together, sewing with care and creativity, tending to her garden, and hosting family gatherings filled with warmth and love. Her home was a place of comfort, faith, and togetherness.

Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 16, 2026, at St. Peters Catholic Church Pine Bluff, Father Andreas Kedati, SVD eulogist. Interment in Martin Cemetery Pine Bluff, AR by Brown Funeral Home of Pine Bluff, AR.

Obituary submitted by The Family.