LUGOFF – Sherry Marie Nelson, 79, formerly of Rochester, Washington, passed away peacefully at KershawHealth on Sunday morning, May 21, 2017. Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, she was the daughter of the late Cecil B. Burris and Dorothy Mae Weigart Grant. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints – Elgin Ward. She enjoyed gardening, reading, church activities, history, and in her early years horseback riding. Mrs. Nelson was an advocate for animals and was known to take in strays to nurture them back to good health. She had an open heart for all those in need. Left to cherish her loving memory is her daughter, Karen Connell (Dr. Sterling) of Lugoff; grandchildren, Alyssa Connell Robinson and Sterling Graham Connell; great-granddaughter, Eleanor Mae Robinson; and her dog, Monroe. She was predeceased by her first husband, John Andrew Contos II; a son, John Andrew Contos III; sister, Ginney Mullen; and her second husband, Robert W. Nelson. Services will be private.