Cecelia Maxine Nelson

Cecelia Maxine Porter Nelson, affectionately known as “Puddin” in her youth and CMax later in life to her children. She was born to Eva Patts Porter and Henry Porter in Washington DC on December 25, 1938 and departed this life May 1, 2021. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband John Wilton Nelson; son Gregory Nelson; her grandson Jermaine Holloway; brothers Eric, Timothy, Clifton, and Dennis; and sisters Pearl, Loretta and Irene. Cecelia married her childhood sweetheart, John, on December 23, 1956 and they were blessed with seven children. She nurtured Davene; Deborah; Gregory; Vanessa; Veronica; Crystal and Roger and provided them with unconditional love throughout her life. Her early formal education was received in the DC Public School system; she was later trained to be a Certified Nurse’s Aide assistant. A natural care taker, she worked much of her professional career at Army Distaff Hall/Knollwood Military Life Community where she provided care and dedicated service for elderly retired military spouses, retiring in 2004. Cecelia enjoyed life and confronted adversity with relentless determination. She was a survivor and often found the silver lining in situations. Her messages to her children and others who were the recipients of her guidance were honest and direct. She provided pearls of wisdom often, even when not solicited, in a loving and caring manner. CMax understood that life could be difficult but consistently reminded her children and those around her that “through faith and determination you can and will succeed.” This life lesson was the spirt she imparted to her children. She lived her faith each day and was an active parishioner of Kingdom Fellowship AME; during the pandemic she regularly participated in virtual worship and fellowship. She enjoyed traveling always negotiating her annual vacation with family and friends before the end of the current vacation. She loved cruising, celebrating her 65th and 75th birthday on the high seas. She enjoyed games, especially her weekly pakeno night with friends at her residence. She attended the White Oak Senior Center where she regularly volunteered to manage the snack bar, assist with monthly brown bag distribution, and daily meal preparation for the senior lunch. She greeted all with a smile and was very well known for her sense of humor. She leaves to mourn her passing: six children; grandchildren Jonathan, Geri Ashley, Arymis, Kayla, and Zoe; great grandchildren Khloe and Penallapi-Bella; sister Sonya Young and a host of nieces, nephews, sister-in-law’s and brother in-laws. Celebration of Life services will be held: May 27, 2021 Solid Rock Full Gospel Church 7711 Walker Mill Drive Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Visitation with the family 10:00 am until 10:45 am Celebration of Life Service: 11:00 am