Ann R. Nelson

SUNRISE: June 8, 1944

SUNSET: October 18, 2025

Annie Ruth Nelson was born on June 8, 1944, in Clay County Brands, Mississippi, to Ruth and Eddie Huddleston. The family left Mississippi and moved to California to seek greater opportunities for their family. After arriving in California, they settled in the San Jose area.

Annie, also known fondly as Ann, was a devoted Christian woman throughout her life. She was baptized under the leadership of the late Reverend C.W. Washington, of Antioch Baptist Church, where Ann had been an active and involved member, for many years.

Ann attended school in the San Jose Unified School District where she graduated from Lincoln High School. After high school, Ann attended San Jose State University where she received her bachelor’s degree in social science and her master’s degree in educational administration and supervision. Ann thus began her illustrious career in education.

Ann served the educational community for thirty-five (35) brilliant years as a teacher, administrator, and mentor. Under her strong leadership, she strived for every student to become a successful learner. Ann authored and co-authored curricular guidelines and worked to ensure that all students had access to quality educational materials.

Ann also served as a college professor at San Jose University. She has received numerous awards throughout her career in education. She worked tirelessly to promote educational equality among all students. Ann was a community contributor as she served as an Airport Commissioner, appointed by the mayor and the city council members of the city of San Jose, at the Minetta San Jose International Airport. She was also a representative of the Santa Clara County, Manufacturer’s Group, and a member of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, the Silicon Valley Chapter.

Earlier in her life, Ann was joined in matrimony to James Nelson. Ann loved reading books, shopping, and interacting with her friends and relatives. She was a strong advocate for education and life-long learning. She was also a strong advocate for natural herbal healing and health.

Ann was proceeded in death by her parents, Ruth and Eddie Huddleston; her sister, Clara Jackson; sister, Lillie Thames; brother Walter Huddleston; her nephew, David Jackson.

Ann is survived by; her niece, Wanda Huddleston Ramsey; nephews, Phillip Jackson Junior, Shaun Huddleston, Walter Huddleston Junior; and many other nieces, nephews, family members, and friends.