Tricia Marie (Jones) Nelson was a caring mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She left this world suddenly on September 2, 2023, to be reunited with her late husband, John Nelson, on their 23rd wedding anniversary. We are sure this reunion was met with hugs, kisses, and likely a slow dance.
Tricia was born September 9, 1972, to Bill and Marie Jones. Tricia grew up on the family ranch near Sturgis, there she learned a love for animals, the land, and all of God’s beautiful creation. After graduating, she attended USD. Upon returning to the hills, Tricia met and later married the love of her life, John Nelson. Together, they had one daughter, Nora Grace Nelson, who won life’s lottery by getting the most loving and devoted parents of all time. Tricia and John loved Nora with all their hearts. When John faced years of medical issues, Tricia was his rock and always had a watchful eye to ensure he was getting the best care possible. Their loved persevered through it all. Tricia’s passion became being a softball mom, not only to Nora but to all of Nora’s teammates too. Nora’s first homerun that she ever hit was on Mother’s Day, which was very fitting for the special bond that they had. Tricia loved watching Nora play ball and will be cheering Nora on from the best seat in the house from here on out.
Tricia was a beloved aunt to Cody, Jesse, Abbie, Hudson, Cameron, and Sophie. Tricia loved to support them all in all of their extra-curricular activities. She loved to cheer them on whether they were playing on the baseball diamond, basketball court, football field, or even the dance floor. No matter where it was, you always knew she was there. Tricia also was known as the best fishing buddy around, she never said no to a fishing trip even if it was early in the morning or late at night. Tricia loved to be by the water with her sunflower seeds in hand. She was always up for a game of cards, but she would never let you win.
Tricia was also a loving and thoughtful sibling and friend. Her faith in God was strong and Tricia was always quick to offer help and a prayer to those in need. It was very early in her life when she developed a great love for all of humanity. Tricia always chose to see the light and find that bit of goodness in all people. Tricia was always down for an adventure. She loved the thrill of being spontaneous, there never needed to be a set-in stone plan. Tricia loved to laugh, and her laugh was so contagious it would make everyone else in the room smile. She was kind, giving, and a true angel on this earth and without doubt she has left the world a better place by being part of it. There is a special place in heaven just for her.
Tricia loved her family dearly and is survived by her daughter, Nora Nelson; parents Bill and Marie Jones; brother Todd and Nicole Jones; sister Tammy Jones, twin brother Travis and Marne Jones; nephews Cody, Jesse, Hudson, and Cameron and nieces Abbie and Sophie; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and friends, all who will miss her terribly but are better for having been a part of Tricia’s life. She was preceded in death by husband, John Nelson; infant siblings, Timothy Jones and Tracy Jones and grandparents Frank and Charlotte Jones and Edward and Nora Erickson.
Visitation will take place at Kirk Funeral Home in Rapid City, Friday, September 8th from 5 to 7 p.m.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 9th at 11 a.m. at Calvary Lutheran Church in Rapid City.
In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting Nora Grace in her continued educational journey as a healthcare professional.
