Shawna Lynn Nelson

Shawna Lynn Leilani Nelson, 54, of Easley, loving wife of Eric Nelson, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. Born in Hawaii, she was a daughter of the late Maurice A. Lavoie and the late Theresa M. Lepage Lavoie and was of Catholic faith.

Shawna earned her master’s degree from Florida State University, a significant achievement that fueled her longtime commitment to teaching. She was known not only as an educator but also as a warm, bubbly, and personable presence who carried an infectious smile that could light up any room she entered. Those who knew her best remember her as giving and passionate—not just about her profession but about life itself.

She was marked by deep passion, kindness, and an unwavering dedication to the children she nurtured and taught. For 32 years, Shawna devoted herself to education—with 28 of those years impacting countless young minds at Chaires Elementary School in Florida and the last 4 years at McKissick Academy of Science & Technology (MAST), where she lovingly taught 5th grade science and math. Her calling was clear: to help children grow, explore, and believe in their potential.

Beyond the classroom, Shawna found profound solace in the waters of lakes and oceans—her sanctuaries where she felt most at peace. Later in life, she embraced change when her and her husband moved close to the mountains, a place that provided new joy and tranquility to her days.

Music was another great love of hers; it played a central role in her life, inspiring and uplifting her spirit throughout the years. She enjoyed all genres, finding joy in the universal language of music that connected us all. Her passion was not only a personal delight but a guiding light in her role as a mother. She lovingly encouraged her children to explore and express themselves through music, nurturing their talents and dreams with unwavering support.

Shawna often spoke about the importance of “finding your why,” encouraging her children and many others to live life with purpose and intention. Through her faith, her love for her family, and the way she touched others, she fulfilled her purpose with grace leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire.

Shawna’s heart was fullest in her role as a mother. She was extremely proud of being a mom, pouring her love and energy into her family with the same devotion that marked her career. Close friends and cherished sisterhood ties within the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority were deeply meaningful to her, highlighting the importance she placed on connection, support, and close friendships.

In addition to her husband of 30 years, she is survived by daughter, Kenley Nelson (Hunter); son, Carter Nelson; sister, Donna Lavoie-Cripps (Larry); brother, Steven Lavoie (Trudy); mother-in-law, Linda Osborne; father-in-law, Ronald Nelson (MaryAnn); numerous nieces and nephews; extended family members and many lifelong friends.

The family will receive friends from 1:45 PM until 2:45 PM on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Robinson Funeral Home-Powdersville Road, Easley, SC. Her Celebration of Life will follow at 3:00 PM in the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in Shawna's memory to the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority — Beta Mu Chapter (Florida State University) https://donate.gammaphibeta.org/Shawna or to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) https://give.bcrf.org/shawnanelson.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Shawna describe her as kind and radiant, someone whose presence had a lasting impact. Her memory will continue to inspire all who loved her, serving as a beacon of generosity, passion, and unwavering love.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.