Mary Jane Nelson

In Loving Memory of Mary “Jane” Nelson

Mary “Jane” Nelson was born on October 1, 1947, in Honolulu, Hawaii, and passed peacefully in her sleep at her home in Phoenix, Arizona, on March 7, 2026.

Jane lived a life filled with warmth, resilience, and deep appreciation for the people around her. After making Phoenix her home in February 2002, she built meaningful connections with neighbors and friends who meant the world to her. She had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome, valued, and loved, and she truly cherished her community.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents Martin Sr. and Mary Fennell; her brother, Martin “Tony” Fennell Jr., (Joyce); her sister, Margaret “Peggy” Fennell; and her brother, William “Billy” Fennell.

Jane is survived by her devoted daughter, Criscencia “Cris” Flores of San Antonio, Texas; her beloved niece, Yvonne Fennell of Kentucky; and her nephew, Martin “Anthony” Fennell III of Hilo, Hawaii, along with many dear friends in Phoenix and Castroville, Texas whom she considered family.

Jane’s kindness, humor, and extremely generous spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by the many whose lives she touched.

Those who knew Jane know her love for Hawaii never left her. In honor of her life, family and friends are encouraged to celebrate her memory by enjoying their favorite Hawaiian ono foods. We can only imagine her now—smiling, laughing, and attending the biggest luau celebration heaven has ever seen, wearing tropical flowers in her hair, surrounded by love, Hawaiian music, and indulging in all her favorite ono dishes.

Jane will be cremated, and her remains will be entrusted to her daughter in Texas.

Contributions may be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower Street, Phoenix, AZ 85014, or Kivel Campus of Care, 3040 N. 36th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85018.