Nell Jeanne Nash, age 96, of Long Lake Township, peacefully entered the presence of the Lord on January 2, 2025, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City, Michigan.

Born on March 27, 1928, in Lansing, Michigan, Nell Jeanne was the daughter of the late Hugh V. and Lucille M. (Paukett) Walker. Her Scottish ancestors immigrated to the Grand Traverse Bay area from Canada in the mid-19th century, settling on farms on Old Mission Peninsula and in Central Lake.

On May 15, 1948, Nell Jeanne married Richard M. Nash in Flint, Michigan. Together, they raised four children. She devoted herself to homemaking until the early 1970s, when she resumed her education by transferring her college credits to the University of Michigan - Flint. A dedicated educator and lifelong learner, Nell Jeanne earned her bachelor's degree from U of M - Flint and later completed her master's degree at Michigan State University.

In 1974, Nell Jeanne began her teaching career with the Grand Blanc School District. She spent three years at Anderson Elementary School before transitioning to Indian Hills Elementary, where she taught first grade. She later moved to Reid Elementary School. In her final two years with the district, she served as a reading teacher, passionately fostering a love of literacy among her students. After a decade of service, she retired in 1984, leaving a legacy of dedication and inspiration.

Following retirement, Nell Jeanne and her husband, Richard, settled on Mickey Lake in Long Lake Township. Their home became a place of warmth and hospitality, where family and friends were always welcome. She cherished time spent with loved ones and often hosted gatherings that celebrated the beauty of the lake and the joy of togetherness.

Nell Jeanne is lovingly remembered by her sons, James R. Nash (Ann) of Pinehurst, North Carolina; William G. Nash (Cheryl) of Troy, Michigan; Richard W. Nash (Laurie) of Moran, Michigan; and her daughter, Laurie N. Anderson (Scott) of Winchester, Tennessee. She was a proud grandmother to 11 grandchildren—Greg Nash, Aimee (Nash) Glupker, Christel (Nash) Smallman, Angie (Nash) Foley, Jenny Nash, Lindsay (Anderson) Fort, Jacob Nash, Thomas Nash, Brad Anderson, Jeb Nash, and Andrew Nash—and a beloved great-grandmother to 22 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her sister, Ann Wolters.

Known for her quick wit and cheerful spirit, Nell Jeanne brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. Even in her final days, she uplifted those around her, bringing smiles to her caregivers. A woman of deep faith, she often quoted Proverbs 17:22a: "A cheerful heart is good medicine."

Nell Jeanne's memory will be cherished by all who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of kindness, faith, and love will continue to inspire generations to come.

A funeral service celebrating her life will be held on May 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m., at the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Tim Vermilyea, a cherished family friend and Team Leader for ABWE Canada missionaries, will deliver the eulogy. A graveside service will follow at Long Lake Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a memorial donation to the ABWE at https://give.abwe.org/worker/tim-and-barb-vermilyea .

To share your thoughts and memories with the family, please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com . The family is being served by Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.