Nelson, Debbie 1955-2024 Clinton Township, Mich.

By NewsPress Now

CLINTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. – Debbie Nelson (Mathers), 69, Clinton Township, Michigan, formerly of St. Joseph, passed away Monday, Dec. 2, 2024.

She was born Jan. 6, 1955, in Salina, Kansas, at the Smoky Hill Air Force Base to Bobby and Betty (Hixson) Nelson.

Debbie loved the Lord and was on numerous prayer chains.

Music was her soul, which she expressed when she and her first husband, Bruce, performed with Daddy and the Warbucks.

Debbie was a beautician with licenses in both Missouri and Michigan.

After returning to St. Joseph, Debbie owned Classic Ride Limo Service. She later relocated to Michigan with her limo service.

In retirement, Debbie enjoyed traveling to various states.

An outgoing person who knew no strangers, Debbie’s heart, generosity and caring were well known. She would be there for anyone in need and also was a foster parent at one time. This caring extended to the four-legged companions in her life, especially her beloved dog, Fatima, whom she adored.

Most of all, Debbie was a loyal, loving sister to Tanya, who considered Debbie her “second mother.”

She was preceded in death by her father; brothers, Ronnie Polkingharn and Todd Nelson Sr.; nephew, Todd Nelson Jr.; and grandmother, Betty “Nan” Whitaker.

Survivors include her mother, Betty Hillsman (Dave); her sons, Marshall Mathers III, and Nathan K. Mathers (Ashley); grandchildren, Hailie Jade Scott and spouse, Alinia Scott and spouse, and Stevie Scott; great-grandchildren, Liam, Carter, and Audrianna; siblings, Steven Robert Nelson (Angie), Tanya DeWeese (Leonard), and Betti Gilpin-Schmitt; numerous nieces and nephews, including Johnathan Winters (Amy), Nicole Nelson, Michelle Ray, Jeremy Schmitt, Joshua Schmitt and Jacob Schmitt.

Farewell Services 1 p.m. Tuesday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Entombment Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will gather with friends 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday and 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Flowers are appreciated and donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Humane Society, or the ASPCA.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.