Shirley Jean (Taylor) Nelson

Shirley Jean Taylor Nelson passed away peacefully at her residence, Wesley Place, in Dothan, Alabama. She was 86 years old.

Shirley was born to the late Eskar and Addie Lou Taylor in Elba, Alabama on June 26, 1937. Following her graduation from Elba High School, she furthered her education at Troy University where she received a degree in Business Education. Shirley found great fulfillment in teaching and remained in the classroom for almost 40 years where she taught typing, English, and other business and office related classes. She was an expert in the lost art of shorthand. She loved teaching her students, inspiring them, but most of all loving them like they were her own children. In fact, she often referred to them as her “adopted” sons and daughters.

Shirley was an avid reader of novels and poetry. She enjoyed finding quotes, re-writing them, and sticking them on any space she could find. Shirley loved jewelry, high heels, pretty clothes, and perfectly styled hair. After retiring, you would often find her shopping and having lunch with her friends or family. She was a long-time member of Southside Baptist Church where she taught Sunday School. Shirley was married to the late Charles Wilton Nelson for 58 years. Together, they enjoyed many mule rides on their covered wagon.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles; her brother, Dr. Wayne Taylor; her brother-in-law, Kenneth Napier; and her favorite aunt, Louise Moon.

She is survived by her sister, Jennifer Napier; sister-in-law, Gail Taylor; brother-in-law, Thomas Nelson (Tina); sister-in-law, Jane Nelson; two special nieces, Aleah Dixon (Jarrett) and Amanda Phillips (Chris); special nephew, Col. Brett Taylor, Retired; and many other beloved nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Wesley Place for their incredible care and the love they have shown Shirley. They also appreciate the care given by the Gentiva Hospice staff. She also had incredible kind friends who checked in on her often and served her well.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Monday, March 18, 2024 at Southside Baptist Church with Reverend Stacy Stafford and Reverend Ken Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Ward Wilson Funeral Home directing. The family will receive friends from 12:30 PM until 2 PM, prior to the service at Southside Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Southside Baptist Church in honor of Shirley Nelson.

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