of Benton, AR
November 4, 1954 - July 18, 2024
Janet Ann Nelson, 69, Little Rock, AR went peacefully to be with the Lord in her sleep on July 18, 2024. Janet was born on November 4, 1954 in Muskegon, Michigan to Theodore and Jean VanderVelde. Janet was known for her strong faith, her family and her compassion for helping others. Janet's pride and joy were her grandchildren, who knew her as ''Nama'', the queen of rice crispy treats, brownies, bubbles and shenanigans. Janet was an advocate and supporter for people living with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. She also served those without permanent housing through Interfaith Hospitality Network and Jericho Way.
Janet was brilliant, beautiful and extremely talented. She was a hard worker and she fought to the very end. Many will remember her for her kindness and generous spirit. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Janet is survived by her children and grandchildren; Mary Ibis (Ismail) Dawson and Eren; Sarah Burns (Michael) Elizabeth and Emily and John Olsen (Sarah) and Clayton. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Greg VanderVelde,
A service to celebrate her life will be held at the Second Presbyterian Church in Little Rock on Thursday, August 1st at 10:00 AM. The service will be available via live stream on the church's website, www.secondpreslr.org.
In lieu of flowers, we welcome memorial gifts to Alzheimer's Arkansans or a charitable organization of your choosing.
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10 Condolence(s)
Jamie Spears
Friday, August 2, 2024
My deepest condolences and sympathies to all who knew and loved her. I’m Tom Nelson best friends Michael Dents oldest daughter Jamie. I remember their beautiful wedding and the few times they came over to spend the weekend with us. She was a wonderful woman and I know she will be deeply missed. She gave my parents a ballerina ornament as a present that plays music. Every year it has given me special memories and I think of her every year putting it on the tree for Christmas. I will always continue to think of her and treasure her in my heart and memories. Much love and hugs go out to you all.
Dr. Rosalie Otters
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
Janet will be remembered as a hardworking and creative adjunct professor of Gerontology in the Social Work Gerontology Certificate Program at UALR. She taught a number of gerontology courses over the years and could be depended upon to do a great job!
She had a wealth of practical experience which helped her pull from a wide variety of experiences. I will miss her!
Peace,
Dr. Rosalie V. Otters Ph.D., MSW, D.Min.
Emerita Professor UALR
School of Social Work and Gerontology
Jamie Spears
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
My deepest condolences and sympathies to all who knew and loved her. I’m Tom Nelson best friends Michael Dents oldest daughter Jamie. I remember their beautiful wedding and the few times they came over to spend the weekend with us. She was a wonderful woman and I know she will be deeply missed. She gave my parents a ballerina ornament as a present that plays music. Every year it has given me special memories and I think of her every year putting it on the tree for Christmas. I will always continue to think of her and treasure her in my heart and memories. Much love and hugs go out to you all.
Jo Ann and Bob McQuade
Tuesday, July 30, 2024
We will always remember our fond memories of Janet's smiling face, caring and loving attitude.
Cathy Crass
Monday, July 29, 2024
Dear Mary and the rest of your family.
I got to know Janet through Stephen Ministry. Her strong faith and compassionate heart were a wonderful combination and she helped many people.
I hope you will fine strength through your strong faith, family and friends. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. Cathy Crass
Richard Mills
Monday, July 22, 2024
Sarah, your mom was such a sweet person! She helped me and my family immensely as we did our best to take care of my dad who had dementia. Her knowledge, coupled with her kind and gentle servant's heart were just what I needed and I'm eternally grateful for the part she had in our caring for our dad. I was able to navigate through this very difficult chapter thanks to Janet. Dear Nelson family, please know that we are praying for your peace and comfort in the days ahead. -Richard & Gabriell Mills
Deborah Pinkerton
Sunday, July 21, 2024
I’m so sorry for your loss. Janet was a facilitator for the support group I attended. She was so knowledgeable and we learned so many things from her. It was a pleasure knowing her.
Nicki and Mick Niland and family
Friday, July 19, 2024
Our prayers and love are with your family. You will be missed! Bless you for helping so many people!
Miranda Adams
Friday, July 19, 2024
I was one of Ms. Janet’s nurses for the last 2 1/2 years and so thankful and blessed to have had her in my life for that time. She was a precious person, always thinking of others and her love radiated through her eyes, smiles and hugs. I loved her dearly and will miss her so much.
Mackinley Phillips
Friday, July 19, 2024
Rest in peace Ms.Janet. You are so loved and will be deeply missed. It was great getting to know you; you were wonderful grandma and mom. I love getting to hear all the great stories your grandkids and children have shared with me. Thank you for so kindly welcoming me into the family. Rest in love.
-Mackinley Phillips