Shirley Fern Carter Nelson

Shirley Fern Carter Nelson, 85, of Hot Springs Village, died November 23, 2014, with her husband Bill and daughter Vicki at her side. Loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, Shirley was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2000 and subsequently endured numerous chemo and radiation treatments. Defying all odds, her cancer went into remission for nearly 10 years, but sadly returned resulting in the loss of her vision and other related challenges. It was her faith, courage, love of life, and the prayers of many that gave her the strength to carry on. She leaves behind a world of family and friends whom she touched with her unfailing love and support.

Shirley is survived by her childhood sweetheart/husband of 66 years, Wilbur (Bill) Nelson. Also survived by sons: Bill Nelson and wife Sterrett, Roger Nelson and wife Kim; (eldest son, Rick Nelson preceded her in death) and daughters: Paula Boldt and husband Bob, Vicki Charlotta; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Shirley also leaves siblings Anita Bolan, Nancy Wedman, Melvin Carter, and many nieces and nephews.

Shirley, eldest child of Melvin and Frances Carter was born on September 11, 1929, in Sterling, Colorado. In 1941, Shirley’s father, a JC Penney store manager, moved his family to Imperial, NE where Shirley met Bill. In high school she was a band member and inseparable from a fun-loving group of girlfriends, the Saints. Shirley’s family taught her homemaking skills and retail basics that would later serve her well. At age 18, she married Bill and soon started their family. Shirley was an enthusiastic supporter and organizer for her family, as Bill’s work for the US Bureau of Reclamation took them to NE, CO, KS, CA, OK, and TX. In 1963, with all her children in school, Shirley returned to the retail world to provide “extras” for her family. She excelled in every position she held or department she managed for Sears in Amarillo. The Nelson home, wherever it was, was a bustle of activity, as Shirley set high standards by example, and helped each of her children pursue their dreams with creativity and enterprise.

In 1984, Bill and Shirley, both retired to travel and enjoy life. They visited all 50 states and travelled to many foreign countries. They attended every family wedding, graduation, and birth and regularly returned to Imperial for Chase County High School reunions. She and Bill moved to the Village in 1993, where Shirley enjoyed reading, golf, garden club, church activities, dancing and card games with her characteristic enthusiasm and commitment.

Our love for Shirley did not die with her. She lives on in our hearts as we cherish our memories of her guidance, support, laughter, and love. We are comforted that Shirley rests in peace with our God after her long and valiant health struggles.