Jana Kay Nelson

Jana Kay Nelson, a beloved daughter of Richard and Ruby (Nichols) Mangold, a cherished mother, a devoted community leader, and a vibrant soul, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at her home in Perkins, Oklahoma. She was 66 years of age. Born on March 25, 1960, in Cushing, Oklahoma, Jana was raised in the Perkins/Stillwater area, where she cultivated a life marked by fun, love, and a welcoming spirit that endeared her to all who knew her.

A graduate of Perkins High School, class of 1978, Jana embraced her community and career with passion and grace. She spent several years working as a cosmetologist, an occupation where she combined her skill and creativity to bring joy and confidence to those around her. Her dedication transcended beyond her profession, as she served as the director of the Mission of Hope for over two decades—an enduring testament to her commitment to serving others and uplifting her community.

Jana possessed a remarkable personality characterized by her great sense of humor, warm hospitality, and boundless love. She found deep pleasure in simple joys: spending cherished time with her family, wandering along sandy beaches, visiting the casino, and enjoying the magic of movies. These moments illuminated her life and the lives of those privileged to share them with her.

Her family remembers her lovingly: her son Brett Moore and wife Crystal of Sapulpa, Oklahoma; her three daughters, Jamie Taylor of Stillwater, Oklahoma, Tiana Eaton and Kayla Eaton both of Boca Raton, Florida; her brother Danny Mangold and wife Francis of Tryon, Oklahoma; her sister Rose Mangold of Perkins, Oklahoma; as well as nine grandchildren—Gavin Moore, Erin Moore, Kelton Moore, Kambryn Moore, Evan Taylor, Carson Taylor, Myka Durbin, Daniel Walden, and Kimber Walden—who all carry forward her legacy of love and laughter. She is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Jana was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Eldon Wayne Mangold, whose memories no doubt shine bright in her story.

The family invites all who knew and loved Jana to attend a viewing on June 18, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Dighton Marler Funeral Home, Stillwater, located at 5106 N Washington St, Stillwater, OK. A Celebration of Life will be held the following morning, June 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the same location, to honor and reflect upon the remarkable life she led. Following the celebration, Jana will be laid to rest with an interment service at Knipe Cemetery, West Knipe Avenue, Perkins, Oklahoma, commencing at 11:30 AM.

Jana Kay Nelson’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of many; yet through her enduring spirit, boundless love, and timeless memories, she continues to inspire all who had the good fortune to know her. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with kindness, laughter, and unwavering devotion—a testament to a woman who lived fully and loved deeply. May her soul find eternal peace along the shores she so loved, embraced forever by the gentle sands of time.