JoAnn Boyd Nelson

JoAnn Nelson, 83, of Powder Springs, Ga. went to be with the Lord surrounded by her family on Dec. 31, 2023. Her family is deeply saddened by her unexpected passing. 

Everyone who knew JoAnn knew she was selfless and full of life.  She was passionate about football, music, and loved to dance. She devoted her life to her family, and she will be dearly missed. 

Jody met her husband Harold in June of 1960 at the South Cobb Roller Rink, marrying him there a short two months later. With the entire wedding party on roller skates, Harold piloted a helicopter as he and JoAnn departed for their honeymoon to the Regency Hyatt House in Atlanta.  Laying roots in Mableton, JoAnn raised four children, while playing an active role in their children’s school days serving as room mother and as PTA president.  

JoAnn was predeceased by her parents John and Evelyn Boyd of Marietta, sister Joan Marie Boyd of Marietta, her husband Harold Wallace Nelson Jr., of Newark, N.J., and grandson Jacob Randall Nelson of Atlanta.  She is survived by her children Mark Randall Nelson, Kimberley Ann Croft (Richard Allen), Wendy Leah McIlwraith, and Christie Lynn Pierce of Powder Springs, as well as her brother, John Larry Boyd (Linda Lightsey) of Austell.  She is also survived by her 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews whom she adored.

Our family is grateful to know that JoAnn is at peace.  Visitation will be held on Friday, Jan. 5, 2023, at West Cobb Funeral Home from 5-7 p.m.  Services will be held on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2023, at 2 p.m. also at West Cobb Funeral Home, promptly followed by a graveside service at Kennesaw Memorial Cemetery.  The family welcomes all to celebrate her life.