Marie Nelson was born on Nov. 26, 1949, in Kimball, Nebraska, to Earl and Beverly Sorensen of Albin, Wyoming. She passed away on Oct. 3, 2025, in Santa Barbara at Serenity House.

After graduating Albin High School, Marie attended Bethel College in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she met her husband Jim.

After their marriage in 1972 they moved to Denver, Colorado, while Jim attended seminary. Upon his graduation in 1975, they moved to Arizona, where they served in two churches before moving to Santa Barbara in 1987.

While in Santa Barbara, Marie worked as a unit clerk at Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital for several years. Following her years at the hospital, she worked in a variety of positions, ultimately retiring from the Boy Scouts of America office.

During her years in Santa Barbara, Marie was involved in the music ministry at Trinity Baptist Church. While here she participated in the orchestra, vocal choir, and handbell choir, all of which she enjoyed.

Marie is survived by her husband of 53 years Jim Nelson; two children Jimmy Nelson (Debbie) of Bakersfield, California, and Erin Pasley (Brian) of Sammamish, Washington; six grandchildren, SSgt. JC Nelson USMC (Adriana), Jacob Nelson, Justin Nelson (Lilly), Joey Nelson, Harper Pasley, and Zoey Pasley; a great grandson James E. Nelson; and siblings Carolyn Stoner, Helen Baize, Scott Sorensen, and Gayle Scarff.

A memorial celebration will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1 at Redeemer Bible Church, 736 W. Islay St. Santa Barbara, followed by a light reception.

Memorial contributions can be made in Marie’s name to Redeemer Bible Church or VNA Health (formerly Visiting Nurse and Hospice Care).

Arrangements by Welch-Ryce-Haider.