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**In Loving Memory of
Allean Jeanette Gill**
March 17, 1941 – May 13, 2026
Allean Jeanette Gill, née Nelson, was born on March 17, 1941, in Arizona to M.J. Nelson and
Lucille Still Nelson. She was named after her mother’s midwife, Allean Taylor. Through her
maternal lineage, she was the great-granddaughter of Ezekiel and Pearl Still of Arkansas, who
managed oil lands, a timber mill, and cotton fields. Through her paternal lineage, she was the
great-granddaughter of Abraham Nelson and Rose E. Patterson, through whom she carried
ancestry connected to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The Nelson family lineage is also connected
to the William Richard Blanton plantation at the river bend. On May 13, 2026, she transitioned
from this life on earth, leaving behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, laughter, and
unconditional love as the matriarch, prayer warrior, and the heart of the Gill-Huff family.
Allean was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter, Yolanda; her brothers, John
Lee Nelson and Lawrence Nelson; and her sister, Hazel Caldwell. She leaves to cherish her
memory her loving sister, Glenda Parrish, along with a host of extended family members and
dear friends.
Allean attended Stockton Elementary School in 1954 and Memorial Junior High School. She
graduated from Gray Castle High School within the San Diego City Schools system in 1964
and later pursued vocational training through the San Diego Medical Assistants Program and
graduated on November 21, 1975. Her desire to grow and achieve never diminished, and she
eventually earned an Associate of Applied Science degree from Arizona Western College in
1997 an accomplishment that reflected her determination and lifelong commitment to education.
Allean was first married to musician Eddie Huff, and from this union, she was blessed with four
children: Yolanda (preceding her in death), Dena, Velecia, and Eddie. In 1971, she married
Larry Gill, a dedicated Navy serviceman, and together they welcomed their only child, Nadia.
Determined to build a better future for her family, Allean relocated to Arizona and made Yuma
her permanent home. As a devoted single mother, she demonstrated extraordinary strength and
sacrifice, often working two and sometimes three jobs to provide stability, care, and opportunity
for her children while accomplishing the dream of purchasing her own home.
Her strong work ethic and servant's heart were evident throughout her professional life. Over the
years, she worked in banking/taxes, real estate, and retail, such as Kmart and Circle K, before
ultimately retiring from Yuma Regional Hospital, where she faithfully served meals to patients
and families.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Allean was a longtime member of the Church of God in
Christ (COGIC) and faithfully served as a prayer intercessor. Her faith sustained her through
life's joys and hardships and inspired her commitment to encouraging and uplifting others.
Allean was known and loved for her unique and contagious laughter—a laughter that could
brighten a room and bring comfort to those around her. Above all else, family was her life's
greatest treasure. While she would humbly acknowledge that she was not perfect, her life
reflected resilience, compassion, sacrifice, and servitude. She loved deeply, gave generously, and
worked tirelessly to ensure those she loved were supported.
She carried generations with grace. She made room for everyone. Family has been her ministry.
Her legacy lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family,
and all who were blessed to know her. Though her physical presence will be deeply missed, her
spirit, humor, wisdom, and love will continue to be honored and remembered for generations to
come.
Matthew 6:33 (KJV)
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added
unto you.
Acknowledgements
The Gill-Huff family is deeply grateful for the overwhelming love, prayers, and support shown
toward us during this difficult time. Every phone call, text message, card, flower, meal, visit, and
act of kindness has brought comfort and strength as we mourn the loss of our beloved mother.
We would especially like to thank the leaders and members of Rose of Sharon Church and Power
House Church for their support and for helping to conduct the services with such compassion
and care.
Our family stands in awe of the outpouring of love and the way everyone came together to help
us through this season of loss. Your generosity, encouragement, and prayers have meant more
than words can express. From the bottom of our hearts, we sincerely thank each one of you. May
God richly bless you for the kindness you have shown our family.
Memorial Service
Power House Church of God in Christ
1798 S. Arizona Ave.
Yuma, AZ. 85364
Saturday, May 30 th at 10:00 a.m.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Allean Jeanette (Nelson) Gill, please visit our floral store.