Valiena Marie Nelson

Nena was born into a loving family as the middle of eight children. From an early age, she was known as the “Mama Bear,” protective and nurturing, yet always full of laughter. She shared an inseparable bond with her sister Cathy—so close that people often referred to them simply as “Nena/Cathy,” as if they were one.

Her childhood was full of family traditions. She learned to play “Bid Whiz” at a young age so her parents always had a fourth player. She loved weekends spent with her older sisters Patricia “Patt” and Cathy, dressing up, going out, and ending with stories and laughter. She cherished her “Valentine birthday twin,” niece Trina Nelson, and later created lasting bonds with her niece Ricia Riley. She was especially glad when Ricia moved back to Omaha. Ricia lovingly served as her “jitney,” making sure she got wherever she wanted to go, all while sharing stories and laughter along the way. Her nephew Terence Nelson was like her “third son,” and to his daughters, Ter’riyah and Terrasia, Nena was like a third grandmother—baking with them, laughing with them, and always sharing special moments.

Nena confessed her love for Christ early in life as a member of The Holy Name Catholic Church. She attended Clifton Hill Elementary School, became a proud Monroe Junior High Mustang, and graduated as a Benson High School Bunny. Even as a young mother, she was determined to finish her education. She fought the Omaha Public School System and made history as the first mother to walk across an OPS graduation stage.

After high school, Nena pursued her associate degree at Metro Tech Community College. While at Monroe Junior High, she met her lifelong best friend, Carolyn Mitchell (Rascoe), who introduced her to James “Booney” Mitchell—the love of her life and longtime partner.

Nena went on to work for Mutual of Omaha as an Executive Assistant, where she was known for her skill and efficiency. Her speed typing was legendary—once recorded at 110 words per minute!

Above all, Nena was devoted to her family. She was a proud mother to her daughter NaKisha and sons Donté and Jesse. She adored her grandchildren Brianna, Brian Jr., Keelan, Kamden, and Alaiya—and could always be found cheering at their games, her whistle echoing through the stands. Alongside Booney, she attended their school functions, always the proud grandmother.

Later in life, Nena became the devoted caretaker for Nana. She was also known for keeping her nieces and nephews close, caring for them, laughing with them, and dancing right alongside them. Though small in stature, her presence was larger than life spicy, full of energy, and always rooted in love.

At home, she was known for her famous tuna casserole, microwave hamburgers, and her sweet tooth for her sister Teresa’s cheesecakes. She loved the Lifetime Channel and was perfectly content slipping away to watch a movie while others gathered for sports.

Nena’s presence was deeply felt throughout North Omaha. She had a gift for connection, bringing people together with her laughter, warmth, and unshakable love. On the very day of her passing, she was planning a Labor Day celebration, inviting her loved ones to gather. God, however, had a greater celebration prepared, and He called her home surrounded by love.

Nena was preceded in death by her mother Frances Kercheval, Lenoard Kercheval “Gunga”; biological father Jack Nelson Sr.; and her beloved partner, James “Booney” Mitchell.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children NaKisha Baker (Brian), Donté Perry (Alexandra), and Jesse Nelson (Adriana); son-in-love Donovan Foster Sr.; Siblings: James William Curtwright (Romana), Patricia Nelson, Jack Nelson Jr. (Tina), Cathy Nelson, Robert Kercheval (La Tacha), Tammie Kercheval, and Teresa Marion (Charles); Sisters-in-love: Carolyn Mitchell-Rascoe and Sabrina Crawford; grandchildren Brianna Baker, Brian Baker Jr., Keelan Nelson, Kamden Nelson, and Alaiya Nelson; and great-grandchildren Kyler and Acyn. She also leaves behind her special friend of many years, Maurice Davis, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends near and far.

Her legacy will continue, as Nena graciously donated her organs through Live On Nebraska, giving the gift of life to others.

To all whose lives she touched, Nena will forever be remembered as a beacon of Light, Laughter, and Love.

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” – Proverbs 3:5-6

SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The family of Nena Nelson would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for the many acts of kindness, prayers, cards, floral tributes, and words of comfort shared with us during this time of sorrow. Your love and support have truly been a source of strength.

We ask that you continue to keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Special thanks given to Mitchell family, Meadows-Buttler family and to Nena’s entire village, too numerous to name. Please know that we love you and are deeply grateful for each of you.

We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to Jack & Good Shepard Funeral Home.

The final resting place will be the Forest Lawn Funeral Home Mausoleum, where a private ceremony will be held.

Wake: Thursday, September 18, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00 PM. Location: Good Shepard 3809 N 90th St Omaha NE 68134

Service: Friday, September 19, 2025, 11:00 AM. Location: Fort Street Church of Christ 5922 Fort Street Omaha NE 68104

Repass: Lothrop Social Hall, 3232 N 24th Street, Omaha NE - following the service