September 28, 1938 - March 30, 2024
Annabelle was born September 28, 1938, in Brocksburg, Nebr. to James and Maudie (Swick) Thayer. She received her education at Wood Lake and Merriman. Annabelle married Harold Nelson and became the proud mother of four daughters. She later met and married Jerry Hale and they resided in Hay Springs. Annabelle discovered a special relationship again when she met companion, Clarence Lacy. The couple remained together for thirteen years until Clarence’s passing.
Years later she met and married Gailund Valentine. They made their home together in Merriman and Annabelle added two stepchildren to her life.
Annabelle waitressed throughout the years and was a friendly face at restaurants such as the Range Cafe in Bassett. She owned and operated the Sand Cafe in Merriman. She also worked at the Merriman Greenhouse for some time.
She was a member of the American Legion and the Merriman Booster Club. Annabelle enjoyed gardening, quilting, doing crossword puzzles, and playing marbles with her daughter, Loretta, every morning. She and Gailund also liked to go dancing when they could.
Ann will be remembered for her unwavering love, her gentle spirit, and her bountiful compassion. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy of love will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Survivors include her husband, Gailund Valentine; daughters, Cinda (Earl) Olberding, Brenda Nelson (Carl Novotny), Peggy (Steve) Graham, and Loretta Fish (Matt Ford); stepson, Kevin (Trish) Valentine; stepdaughter, Tonya Valentine; sister, Karen Holeman; brother-in-law, Leo Nelson; sister-in-law, Phyllis Nelson; 22 grandchildren; 45 greatgrandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; along with other extended family members and friends.
Annabelle was preceded in death by her parents, James and Maudie Thayer; brothers, Fred, LaVern, and Lester Thayer; sister, Lila Nelson; husbands, Harold Nelson and Jerry Hale; and special friend, Clarence Lacy.
Ann passed away at Regional West Medical Center in Scotts Bluff. Graveside services for Ann will be held April 27, 2024 at 2 p.m. MT at Merriman Memorial Cemetery in Merriman.