Janet Nellos

Jan lit up the room. She was the life of the party - beautiful with an incredible wit that drew people to her. She was fiercely devoted to her husband, Connie Nellos. Together, they had four children: Nick, Jeff, John, and Joanna, and 10 grandchildren. Tragedy struck her family when Jeremy, the second-oldest grandchild, died in a car accident in 2001. Not long after, the eldest son, Nick, was murdered in 2002. Devastated, she persisted with dedication and loyalty to her family. Jan’s motto, “if I can't laugh, I can’t survive,” helped her through those unimaginable times.

Jan was a great storyteller and would often have the whole table laughing. She was creative, always working with her hands in various forms of art, including painting, stained glass, knitting, crocheting, design, fashion, flower arranging, and holiday decorations. She enjoyed creating beautiful things and sharing that beauty with others over a glass of wine. A lifelong learner and a great dancer, she brought laughter and grace to ballroom dancing, Greek dancing, and even belly dancing - it didn’t matter; she was willing to give it a try, just as she had when she was a flag twirler in high school.

She faced the progressive memory loss with determination, courage, and her trademark sense of humor. Always the host, she would often welcome people to Casa Subina, her home for two years, where they took excellent care of her. She slipped away peacefully, her long battle over.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In place of flowers, please make donations to the Nick C. Nellos Fund through the Albuquerque Community Foundation. Nick C Nellos Memorial Fund for At-Risk Children 

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