Our Queen, Nellie Jean, left this earth on April 16th, 2026, in her home, surrounded by her biggest fans, her three girls and companion Rick. Nellie Jean Booth was a superstar in the eyes of those close to her. At 93 years old, she lived a wonderful life of independence, with a work ethic that would leave others in the dust, a sense of humor built on enjoying seeing people happy, brutal honesty that was only allowable because of the extent she loved unconditionally, and a level of resilience, both in body and mind, that was like no other.

Jean, as most called her, was born January 18th, 1933, to Chester and Ruth Abbott. By the time she was three, both her parents had passed, and her grandmother raised her.

She graduated from Logan High School in 1951. As if having six kids, keeping a pristine house, and home-cooked meals wasn’t enough, Jean worked and retired from Kroger. She loved her work in the deli and the time she spent decorating cakes. She never let anything go to waste, including the 5-gallon tubs of icing she brought home, declared “still good,” as was Chapmanville parade candy left on the road.

And somewhere in her spare time, she found time for things she enjoyed, especially thrifting, bingo, and Pickin’ in the Park. Along with Rick and her two Yorkies, Rocky and Katie, she loved packing up and going to her house in Florida for extended stays more than anything.

Rick loved her dearly, appreciating her heart and beauty to the fullest. As she got older, she settled into life in Chapmanville. She loved decorating her house, gardening, cleaning, and company. Anyone visiting her house always felt welcome, no matter the time or circumstance. She force-fed guests and loaded their arms up with random “gifts” like starter plants, “real good” underwear, jewelry, and what-nots.

Visitors beware, though, because she would quickly inform you if you had gained an ounce. It was a skill only she could master, as loved ones all knew just how beautiful they were in her eyes. In her last years, she could be found on her porch counting roses and cars, spotting the littlest thing out of order with her eagle eyes, and watching the birds. As with her family, she knew which birds were eating a little too much. Those caretakers at the end were very much encouraged to take one of her beautiful roses home in a cup for their wife. While Jean didn’t sit on the pews of any church, she carried out a life of servanthood. She rooted for and supported the underdog, put love into action, gave generously, and chose acceptance, love, and forgiveness…always. She seldom complained and was not one for much self-pity.

But above all else, Jean Booth loved her family with every single fiber of her being. Her precious three boys– Gary, Keith, and Darren, were her life. Her babies, no matter their age, all passed on knowing just how much their mother adored them. There was nothing she didn’t do or wouldn’t have done to show them that. And then there were her girls, as independent, hardworking, and loving as she was, who provided the absolute best care for her until her final second on earth. They often have their own moments of realization that they are miniature versions of their own mother (aka the Jean gene), a compliment in the highest form. And her grandkids – she was hands down the best grandma to exist. She adored them all. Each tried to earn the prize as her favorite grandchild. They all had their suspicions, but in the end, she loved each and every one in their own special way. And Rick, who stood faithfully by her side and filled her years with companionship.

Nellie Jean Booth lived with a strong and invincible spirit that undoubtedly gave her a good, solid 93 years. Her influence was strong, and her fan club will continue on, all counting their blessings for the love, fun times, and care she gave.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents, Chester and Ruth Abbott; the father of her children, Harry Booth; sons Gary Michael Booth, Keith Edward Booth, and Darren Ray Booth; son-in-law Michael Jeffrey; brother Jimmy Abbott; and sister-in-law Rosemary Abbott.

Survivors include her companion, Richard “Rick” Mays, of Chapmanville; three daughters, Karen Stover, Sharon Jeffrey, and Marianna (Kevin) Ball; and all her favorite grandkids: Adriana Booth, Michael (Cassandra) Booth, John (Camille) Evans, Holly (Jeremy) Abraham, Alyx Stover, Kelly (Tony) Thompson, Bridgett (Kenny) Stephens, Brooke (Michael) Gilliam, CherAimee Roblee, Keiton Tompkins, Kayla (Brian) Lane, Leah (Josh) Evans, Josh Gordon, Paige Booth, and Hunter Booth, along with 27 great-grandkids; and a host of special friends: Tim & Valerie Hoffman, Judy Bonelli, Janice Ball, and Steven Brown.

A special thanks to Dignity Care and the care team for compassionate, top-notch care.

Her service will be at Freeman Funeral Home, Chapmanville, WV, on Monday, April 20th, from 11am–12 p.m. for family, with open visitation from 12–1 p.m., and a burial service immediately following at Highland Memory Gardens, Old Road, Logan, Chapmanville. Pastor Rocky Chafin will be officiating.

Freeman Funeral Home, Chapmanville, WV is in charge of the arrangements.