SOUTH GLENS FALLS --- Maria Elena Nelson, age 80, of South Glens Falls, passed away on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, in the arms of her beloved.

Born in Syracuse, New York, she was the daughter of the late Standley W. Nelson and the late Helene (Roupas) Nelson, the sister of the late William "Biff" Nelson and was married for 20 years to her "one true love" Deb Myette. Maria delighted audiences as lead vocalist in numerous venues throughout the Northeast, and also played guitar, keyboards, and drums with her band during her 40-year career as an entertainer. After retiring from professional singing, Maria's career as a social worker was focused on helping others at Easter Seals of New York and the American Foundation for the Blind, and employment counselor at Branford Hall, and for Veterans Service in Albany, New York. She was of the Greek Orthodox faith and practiced spirituality.

Ms. Nelson is survived by her wife, Deb Myette; Deb's daughter, Rebecca "Becca" Flis; loving dog, Patches; her nephew, Mark (Lisa) Nelson of South Glens Falls; her niece, Elizabeth "Libby" (Joe Preece) Aurelia of Glens Falls; three great nephews, Alex, Patrick, and Simon; two great nieces Katherine and Izzie; and a special cousin, Sophia Wales of Syracuse.

A private Celebration of Life with family and friends will be held at a later date.

Donations in Ms. Nelson's name may be made to the Wolf Conservation Center, P.O. Box 421, South Salem, NY 10590.

The family would like to express heartfelt thanks and gratitude to caregiver and friend Debbie Anderson for her loving and compassionate care of Maria for the last seven years. The family would also like to express special thanks and gratitude to Sean Campanie, FNP and staff at Homeward Bound (Pathways) of Hudson Headwaters Health Network for their compassionate care of Maria, and Community Hospice Saratoga.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.