Nicole Marie Nelson

Nicole Marie Nelson, nee Partlow, age 50, a resident of Aurora, IL, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on January 24, 1975 in Chicago Heights, IL.
Nicole is survived by her loving husband of 26 years, Dave Nelson; her daughters, Alexa and Riley Nelson; her parents, Richard and Karen Partlow, JR., her brothers, Richard B. (Karyn) Partlow and Matthew (Laura) Partlow; her niece, Paige Partlow; and her father-in-law, Terry (Donna Marie) Nelson. She was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Linda Jean Nelson.
Nicole grew up in Naperville and was a proud graduate of District 204 schools, completing her education at Waubonsie Valley High School with the Class of 1993. She continued her academic journey with dedication and passion, earning an Associate's degree from the College of DuPage; a Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master's in Education Leadership and Administration from North Central College; and a Master of Science in Literature from Northern Illinois University.
Nicole devoted her professional life to teaching elementary students in Lisle, where she touched countless young lives with patience, warmth, and a deep love for learning. Outside the classroom, Nicole embraced life fully. Her greatest joy was her family-her husband and daughters-who were at the center of everything she did. She will be missed, always loved, and never forgotten.
In honor of Nicole's vibrant spirit, her daughters ask that those attending her services forego traditional funeral attire and instead wear something colorful. They feel that color best reflects the joyful, radiant person their mother was.
For those who would like to leave a lasting tribute to Nicole's life, memorial donations may be directed to the GoFundMe established for her.
A memorial visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 3:00-8:00 PM at the Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill St., Naperville. A prayer service will be held at 6:00 PM. Interment will be private.