Donna Rose Nelsen

With heavy hearts and a spirit filled with love, we honor the life of Donna "MawMaw Donna" Rose Nelsen, who passed away on March 25, 2026, in Bluffton, South Carolina. Born on January 1, 1948, in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana, Donna was a beacon of kindness, generosity, and selflessness throughout her life.

Donna graduated from Delgado Community College in New Orleans, earning an associate degree in data processing. Her career was devoted to serving others, particularly in her roles as an administrative assistant in the public school system and later as a concierge in the family business at Barbers of the Lowcountry. She approached every task with compassion, always striving to better the lives of those around her.

As a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Donna's family was her greatest treasure.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Louis E Nelsen III, brother, Paul Jourdan, her sons Louis E. Nelsen IV, Brent Nelsen, and Darin Nelsen, along with their wives Heather, Cary, and Brandi Nelsen. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth Kennon, Dusty Kennon (grandson-in-law), Crystal Nelsen, Anthony Nelsen, Miley Nelsen, and Taylor Nelsen, and her great-grandson Ollie Kennon.

Donna was a woman of faith, sharing the message of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with anyone willing to listen. Her love for church, gospel music, and old hymns filled her home with warmth and joy. Known for her entertaining spirit, she often hosted family gatherings, particularly joyous celebrations of her birthday that blended New Year’s Eve and New Years Day traditions. In her quiet moments, she enjoyed bird watching with her husband and watching the Hallmark Channel. A passionate supporter of her New Orleans Saints and LSU Tigers, she adorned her home with symbols of her beloved teams, including the iconic Fleur de lis.

A memorial service celebrating Donna’s life will be held on April 6, 2026, at 11 AM at Cornerstone Church in Bluffton, located at 1300 May River Road.

The family kindly notes that flowers are not necessary; however, those who wish to honor Donna in this way may do so by sending them to Barbers of the Lowcountry, 17 Sherington Dr, Ste F, Bluffton, SC 29910.

As we reflect on her incredible journey, may we take inspiration from Donna's unwavering kindness and compassion. Her legacy of love will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.