GLORIA JEAN NELSON

Gloria Jean Nelson, age 65, of Golden City, passed away April 23, 2026, at Cox Barton County Hospital in Lamar.

Gloria was born June 28, 1960, in Carthage to William Gene Elliott and Priscilla Mae (Webb) Elliott. She graduated from Golden City High School in 1979. On September 24, 1987, she was united in marriage to Dale Alden Nelson in Miami.

Gloria spent many years caring for others while working at her mom and stepdad’s restaurant, Wayside Cafe, and later devoted seven years to serving residents at Good Shepherd Nursing Home. She then spent the next 23 years at home as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

She always made time for anyone in need and had a special gift for making others feel seen, valued, and loved. Known for her wonderful sense of humor, Gloria could light up any room with her smile and laughter. She always had a story to tell, but her greatest joy in life was being a grandmother.

Gloria loved bird watching, caring for plants, lottery tickets, her dog Homer, and any kind of sale — yard sales, garage sales, store sales, and auctions. Above all, she cherished her family, friends, and especially her grandchildren.

Survivors include her husband, Dale; one son, Elliot Nelson of Pekin; two daughters, Jennifer Nelson of Golden City and Danielle Nelson and Kyle Besendorfer of Lamar; two grandchildren, Colby Nelson and Mercadez Scott of Joplin and Michelle Nelson of Lamar; one brother, Robert Elliott and his wife, Rita, of Golden City; many nieces and nephews, including Misty, Emma, Jaydon, Gunner, and Tosha, all of Golden City; as well as a host of other family members and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Tommy Elliott, Danny Young, and Ricky Tubaugh; and one sister, Laura Jane Young, whom she had missed dearly for the past 15 years.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the family home, 1137 SE 75th Road, Golden City, Missouri.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.