Lillian Mary Nelson

Lillian Mary Nelson, affectionately known as Lill, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2025, in Catonsville, MD, at the age of 88. Born on August 28, 1937, in Windber, PA to Charles and Helen Barbey, who preceded her in death. Lill dedicated her life to family, friends, and community.

Lill graduated from Shaw High School and earned her bachelor's degree from both Bowling Green University and Madonna University. Lill began her career as a secretary at Di-Noc/Towmotor and went on to volunteer with several organizations and taught preschool before working and retiring from City of Northville. Throughout her life, she was actively involved in her community, contributing her time and spirit to organizations such as the Northville Garden Club, Women's Club, Newcomer Association, PTA, Brownies/Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, the First United Methodist Church of Northville, Christ United Methodist Church of Venice, FL, Moose Lodge of Venice, FL, and PEO Sisterhood in Venice, FL. These engagements reflected her dedication to building relationships and supporting those around her.

Lill was a person that embodied a spirit of kindness and warmth, making everyone feel at ease with her sweet personality, great sense of humor, and welcoming nature. Lill greeted everyone with a hug, a kiss, and a smile—an embodiment of her loving character. A devoted mother and grandmother (Mema), Lill cherished time spent with her family, especially during holidays, birthdays, and special occasions. Her interests spanned many areas, including playing golf and tennis, reading, listening to music, dancing, and watching her grandchildren engage in their sports and performances. Lill also found joy in meeting friends and family for lunches and dinners, making Hungarian meals and cookies, playing cards with friends, taking casino trips, traveling, and gardening.

She is survived by her daughters; Debra McIntyre (Neil) and Carol Crane; her son, David Nelson (Jodi), along with her grandchildren Rachael, Connor, Isabelle and Avalon. Each moment spent with her loved ones was filled with joy, love, and laughter.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harlan Gill Nelson, her parents Charles and Helen Barbey, and her siblings Helen, Charles, Rose, Stephen, Violet, Robert, and Richard. Each of these individuals shaped Lill into the person she was, and she is now reunited with them in eternal peace.

Lillian Mary Nelson leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and strength, reminding us all of the importance of family, friendship, and the joy found in everyday moments. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, including her cherished family and friends who will remember her vibrant spirit and unwavering love.

A memorial service and celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 am at the United Methodist Church of Northville, 777 Eight Mile W., Northville, MI 48167. A gathering time will begin at 10:30 am at the church and a luncheon/celebration of life will follow in the church's Fellowship Hall. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Northville, the American Diabetes Association or the Alzheimer's Association.