Jo Ann Nelson, affectionately known to family and friends as "Candy," was born on March 4, 1952, in Los Angeles, California, to Imogene Nelson and Frederick Nelson. She departed this life on July 30, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri. Candy graduated from Central High School. A well-known face across area bars in the Kansas City community, she spent years as a beloved bartender where patrons affectionately knew her as "Miss Ebony." Candy was a true free spirit with a vibrant, adorable personality and a remarkably giving heart that brought warmth and joy to everyone around her. She was preceded in death by her sister, Kathleen Nelson, and her brothers, Frederick Nelson, Paul Nelson, Steve Nelson, Chauncey Slayton, and Freddie Roberts. She leaves to cherish her memory: her sister, Corla Nelson; her good friend, James Bryant; along with a host of extended family, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

A service will be held on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services LLC: 2800 East 18th Street, KCMO 64127. The visitation will be held from 10- 11 a.m, with the service to follow promptly at 11:00 am. 

The Interment will take place following the service at XII Gate Memorial Gardens, 9500 East Bannister, KCMO, 64138.