Betty Brown Nelson

Betty Brown Nelson, 87, of Abilene passed away at a local hospital on November 10th , 2013. Betty will be remembered at a memorial service to be held at the University Church of Christ, 733 EN 16th at 11:00 am Wednesday, November 13, 2013. Arrangements are under the direction of Piersall Funeral Directors, 733 Butternut Street.

Betty was born June 29, 1926 in Gainesville, Texas to William and Callie Brown. Beginning June 1952 she worked 40 summers as a nutritionist at Camp Sweeney diabetic camp. Betty met the love of her life, Charles W. Nelson April 1, on Easter Sunday, 1945. Charles and Betty were blessed with three children. Betty and Charles moved to Abilene August 24, 1984.

Being active was a trademark of Betty's and she used that to benefit many local non-profits in Abilene. She served on the Philharmonic Board and the Philharmonic Guild for many years providing desserts for fundraisers as well as providing leadership for many successful events. Betty volunteered for the Grace museum and served on their board as well. In addition, Betty has been the moving force behind raising funds for Women for ACU. Betty received the Jefferson Award Medal for Volunteer Services, AAUW Award, was the Volunteer of the Month for Meals on Wheels and was a recipient of the Paul Harris Fellow award from Rotary International. Betty leaves a legacy of service that has touched the lives of many in the Abilene area and beyond. Her sweet spirit and boundless energy will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Betty is survived by her husband of 66 years, Charles, sons John Byron III of Winston Salem, North Carolina, and Charles David of Denton, Texas and daughter, Bari Ann Nicolls, of Colorado Springs, Colorado as well as a sister, Leta Hatfield. Also surviving Betty are grandson’s David Allen Nelson, Will Nelson, John Byron Nelson IV, and Charles Nicolls and Granddaughters Emma Duesman, Katie Nelson, and Jessica Nicolls. She was preceded in death by her parents and a baby brother.

Memorials may be made to the Charles & Betty Nelson Endowed Vocal Music Scholarship at ACU, Abilene Philharmonic, or Christian Service Center. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.pbfuneraldirectors.com.