Jean Marguerite Nelson

On Friday, June 20th, 2025, Jean Marguerite Nelson affectionately known as “Momma Jean”, peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home. She was born on August 8th, 1934, as the third child of Thomas and Margaret Barker. Jean was raised in Washington, DC, where she attended Grimke Elementary School, Garnet-Patterson Jr. High and Cardoza High School where she graduated in June 1952.

Jean joined Simpson Methodist Church at an early age. Later she joined St. Paul Baptist Church in Washington DC, where she was baptized and later joined Mt. Sinai Baptist Church in Washington, DC. where she was a faithful member until her health prevented her from attending.

In 1954, Jean joined in Holy Matrimony to the late Earl Lee Nelson. During this union, they were blessed with a daughter, Myra Marguerite.

Jean retired from the Washington Hospital Center after many years of dedicated service in hospitality.

After retirement, she helped raise her beloved “Son”, Austin R. Smith, until he entered kindergarten. Austin was the love of “Momma Jean” and Daddy Earl’s life. It was Austin who coined the names “Momma Jean and Daddy Earl”.

Jean was a joy to be around. She loved to play Pokeno and Bingo, helping her neighbors at Manor Senior Community and eating crabs. Any opportunity to eat crabs, Jean was always ready.

She leaves to cherish her loving daughter, Myra M. Wright and Goddaughter, Donna Scott. She also leaves to cherish her memory, Brother-In-Law Eugene Nelson, Sisters-In-Law Sylvia Nelson, Joyce Urby and Lillian Lloyd (Lonnie), Six nieces, Six nephews, a host of great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by her sisters Earline Ellis, Ann Dimery and brother Donald Barker.

A visitation for Jean will be held Wednesday, July 2, 2025 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 10:30.

Those unable to attend may join the livestream at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25065196829806