Willie Jean was born March 19, 1934 to Earl Reese and Artencie Bell Reese in Gladewater, Texas.

She accepted Christ at an early age and joined the New Hope Baptist Church in Gladewater, Texas.

She received her education at Weldon High School and Texas College. Mrs. Nelson was one of the many to be crowned Miss Black Texas College.

Willie Jean Reese united in Holy Matrimony with Dorsay Nelson on October 22, 1953.

Once married, she moved to Tatum, Texas, uniting with the Friendship Baptist Church in Tatum, Texas. She was a very active and faithful member until her health prevented her from attending service.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Roosevelt Reese, Ruby Smith, Timothy Reese, R.C. Reese, J.C. Reese, Ben Reese, Ozell Reese, and loving husband of 67 years Dorsay Nelson.

Loving memories will be cherished by seven children:  Gary D. Nelson (Andrette), Vincent Nelson, Aretha Smith (Willie B.), Isaiah Nelson (Doris), Angelia Sells (Daniel Jr.), Dorsay J. Glaspie (Rodney), Galia Franklin (Thomas); 15 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; one brother, Louis Mack Reese of Vacaville, California; sisters-in-law, Alma Jean Reese, Irene Robinson, Margean Nelson, Maggie Nelson, Laura Lee Trimble; one brother-in-law, E. W. Nelson (Jessie); along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.