Nellie Mae McGrand, age 67, of Mound, Minn., died Saturday, Nov. 23, 2002, at the Methodist Hospital, St. Louis Park.

She was born Sept. 12, 1935, in Austin, and was raised in rural Freeborn County. She graduated from Blooming Prairie High School in 1953 and went on to Winona State University. In June 1956, she married Vern McGrand in Minneapolis.

Nellie Mae was hardworking, independent, as well as a loving mother and wife. Generous and compassionate, there was nothing that she enjoyed more than giving lavishly to family and her wide circle of friends. Her philanthropy was not limited to those nearest her: Nellie Mae was a generous contributor to many charitable organizations including St. Joseph’s Indian School and the Animal Humane Society.

While in Albert Lea, Nell worked at First Federal and the Albert Lea Clinic. At the time of her death she was public relations director for Kinko Inc.

Nellie Mae’s death occurred peacefully after a long and courageous battle with illness. Her good humor and strength in facing adversity were an inspiration to everyone who knew her. The family wishes to acknowledge the support of Heidi Olson, nurse and special friend to Nellie Mae, who attended upon her during her final illness.

Survivors include her husband, Vern McGrand; children: Jeffrey, Jill and Scott McGrand, Macky Belanger, Kathy Barri and Robert Kreiser; grandchildren: Robin (Ian) Pinegar, Nathan, Sena, Alex, Sam, Tyler and Travis McGrand, and Mikey and Little Nellie Barri; and sister, Beverly (Richard) Hart of Albert Lea.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Leota Dearmin, and father, Dale Dearmin.

Visitation is 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 26, at the Huber Funeral Home, Mound, and at the church one hour before the service.

The funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 27, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, Mound, with the Rev. Mader presiding. Interment will be in the Evergreen Cemetery in Red Lake Falls, Minn.