LINCOLN, NEBRASKA, USA — Julia Kay (Freese) Nelson, 64, passed away on June 30, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, faith, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her death has been met with heartfelt condolences from relatives, friends, former colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Born on June 14, 1962, to Leon and Alida (Brandt) Freese in rural Plymouth, Nebraska, Julia was raised in a faith-filled home and was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Plymouth. She attended several schools during her education, including Martin Luther Academy in New Ulm, Minnesota, and Tri-County High School in Jefferson County, before earning her nursing degree from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.
Julia dedicated much of her professional career to nursing, serving patients in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit at Bryan East Hospital. She was widely respected for her professionalism, compassionate care, and calm demeanor, providing comfort to countless patients and their families throughout her years in healthcare.
On June 18, 1983, she married Mark Nelson, and together they shared 43 years of marriage. Following her retirement, Julia devoted herself to spending time with her family, especially her four daughters and six grandchildren. She also remained active in her community through church activities, Bible study, PEO, social groups, football tailgates, Mahjong gatherings, book club, and travels with family and friends.
She is survived by her husband, Mark Nelson of Lincoln; daughters Tori (Bryan) Sones of Lincoln, Ali (Kyle) Dostal of Omaha, Sami (Matt) Karloff of Lincoln, and Amanda (Keaton) Lewis of Lincoln; brothers Mark (Marlys) Freese and Neal (Linda) Freese; sister-in-law Sandy Freese; six grandchildren; along with numerous extended family members and close friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Leon and Alida Freese; her brother, Bruce Freese; and her cherished dog, Bella.
Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 6, 2026, at St. Mark Lutheran Church. A family prayer service will begin at 9:30 a.m., with burial to follow at Lincoln Memorial Funeral Home & Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Sunday, July 5, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., as well as one hour before the funeral service at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark Lutheran Church or LightShine Canine Rescue in Julia’s memory.
Julia Kay Nelson will be remembered for her compassionate spirit, steadfast faith, generous heart, and enduring love for her family. Her legacy will continue to live on in the lives of those she touched throughout her lifetime.
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