Bessie Mae Nelson

Bessie Mae Nelson, a beloved matriarch, devoted wife, and woman of unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at the age of 98. She was born on May 17, 1927, in Greenville, South Carolina, the only daughter born from the union of Ora and Ellis Austin. In 1936, young Bessie moved with her family to Cincinnati, Ohio, where she would spend the remainder of her life — a city she made her home for nearly nine decades.

It was in Cincinnati that Bessie’s story truly blossomed. In 1960, she met the love of her life, Robert Nelson, and the two were united in marriage on June 2, 1962. Their union was a testament to love, partnership, and devotion. She is also the proud mother of her son, Fred Sneed, born in 1944.

A woman of many talents and quiet strength, Bessie worked as a seamstress for many years, her skilled hands a reflection of the care and precision she brought to everything she did. She found great joy in cooking hearty meals for her family, caring for her dogs, tending to her garden, canning, and her faithful attendance at church. Whether gathering loved ones around her table or nurturing the things she held dear, Bessie poured herself fully into the life she built.

After the passing of her beloved mother, Ora, Bessie gracefully stepped into the role of family matriarch — a title she carried with dignity, warmth, and an open door for all. Her home was a gathering place, her presence a constant source of comfort and wisdom for those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Bessie gave her life to Christ in her early life and lived out that faith with steadfast devotion. She was an active and cherished member of Inspirational Baptist Church for many years, faithfully serving until her health prevented her from attending. Her faith was not simply something she practiced on Sundays — it was the foundation upon which she built her life and raised her family.

Bessie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Nelson; her parents, Ora and Ellis Austin; and five brothers: Leroy, Ernest, Robert, John Thomas, and Julius.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Fred Sneed; her brother, James Austin Sr.;8 grandchildren, 31 great-grand children, and 4 great-great grandchildren; devoted neighbors and dear friends Ms. JoAnn Ventus and Ms. Wanda Reese; special nieces Lucille Austin and Teresa Lang; and a host of nieces, nephews and extended family whose lives were forever enriched by her love, grace, and gentle spirit.

Bessie Mae Nelson lived a life full of love, purpose, and faith. She will be deeply missed and long remembered — not only for what she did, but for who she was: a woman of strength, warmth, and enduring grace.

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