Jo Ann Nelson

Jo Ann Nelson obituary

Jo Ann Nelson

Jo Nelson Obituary

Visit the Wilmington Funeral & Cremation - Wilmington Chapel website to view the full obituary.
Jo Ann Pritchard Nelson, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and friend, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 82. Born on November 3, 1942, in Columbus, Ohio, Jo lived a life filled with love, dedication, and kindness.

In her early years, Jo worked diligently as a cashier at Kroger's grocery store, where she was known for her warm smile and friendly demeanor. She later transitioned to a successful career as a bank teller, serving at various banking institutions, culminating in her retirement from First Citizens Bank. Jo's commitment to her work was admired by colleagues and customers alike.

Outside of her professional life, Jo cherished her time playing cards, having flying adventures with her husband and family, and visiting 32 countries and Hawaii. She was an enthusiastic member of a book club and enjoyed the camaraderie of her bowling team. Her hobbies brought her joy and connected her with many dear friends.

Jo was preceded in death by her cherished daughter, Leissa Nelson, her loving parents, Joseph and Maxine Pritchard, and her sister, Beverly Plether. She is survived by her devoted husband of 64 years, Floyd "John" Nelson, who stood by her side through life's journey. Her legacy lives on through her son, David Nelson, and his wife Caroline of Lake Powell, FL, and her daughter, Heather Letto, and her husband Benjamin of Flagler Beach, FL. Jo was a proud grandmother to Amber Tuinstra (Adam), Joseph Claver (Jacqueline), and Michael Claver (Russell), and a great-grandmother to Sophia, Silas, Emerson, Abilene, and Gabrielle. She is also survived by her siblings, Diane Pepe of Aniston, AL, and Charles Pritchard of Columbus, OH.

A memorial service to honor Jo's life will be held at a later date at Wilmington Funeral Chapel, please view the website for updated information. The family suggests that donations be made in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Mercy Ships, please see link below.

Jo P. Nelson will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Her family has entrusted Jo's care to Wilmington Funeral and Cremation, 1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 29403.
Wilmington Funeral & Cremation - Wilmington Chapel

1535 S. 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403

People and places connected with Jo

Make a Donation
in Jo Nelson's name

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.

How to support Jo's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Jo Nelson's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Plan and Price a Funeral

Create a funeral plan and price estimate in less than 5 minutes.