Maria Vincenza Nelson

Maria Vincenza Nelson, age 72, of Fenton, Missouri, passed away peacefully at 3:05 a.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, surrounded by her devoted daughters.

Born on October 11, 1953, in Sicily, Maria was the cherished daughter of the late Rosario and Gesualda (Rizzo) Signorino. Her Sicilian roots shaped her strength, her warmth, and the deep love she carried for her family.

Maria is survived by her three daughters, who were the pride of her life: Sherry Dace of Columbia, MO; Janet Nelson of Fenton, MO; and Lauren Baechle (Nick) of Arnold, MO. She was the beloved grandmother of nine grandchildren-Victoria Pryor (Caleb), Claudia Dace, Gabe Dace, Gavin Dace, Kayla Nelson, Hayden Nelson Bogaski, Vivian Nelson Bogaski, Audrey Baechle, and Sylvia Baechle-each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her brothers, Guisseppe Signorino of Illinois and Bernardo Signorino of St. Louis. She was preceded in death by her brother, Pasquale Signorino.

Maria dedicated her life to caring for others. She earned her bachelor's degree in Nursing in 1994 and went on to serve as a Registered Nurse, finding her true calling in psychiatric nursing. Her compassion, patience, and unwavering belief in the dignity of every person touched countless lives. She had a gift for seeing people as they were and meeting them with understanding and kindness. Above all, Maria loved her family-her daughters, her grandchildren, and the beautiful, bustling life they created around her. Her legacy lives on in their laughter, their strength, and the love she poured into them every day.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, lovingly planned by her daughters, where family and friends will gather to honor Maria's memory and the light she brought into their lives. Maria will be remembered for her generosity, her resilience, her gentle spirit, and the way she made everyone around her feel seen and cared for. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her love will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.