Jeannette (Jan) Nelson (Hilton), age 88, of Rochester, NH, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family.

Jan was a lifelong resident of Rochester and a proud graduate of Spaulding High School. She was deeply devoted to her community and was honored as the Rochester Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year in 1983 in recognition of her many contributions.

Jan was the longtime owner of Nelson’s Aqualand and Pet Shop, a beloved local business. In addition to serving her customers, she supported the community by sponsoring Nelson’s Aqualand women’s softball team in the early 1980s. In her later years, Jan remained actively engaged in community service through her involvement with Community Partners, Victims Inc., and AmeriCorps Seniors.

Among her many accomplishments, Jan was especially proud of her efforts in recent years to help facilitate the transition of the Stony Brook Cooperative from well water to city water—an achievement that greatly improved the quality of life for residents.

In her free time, Jan found joy in gardening and caring for her collections of tropical fish, aquatic plants, birds, and other pets. She also cherished time spent at the beach and the lake. Above all, Jan treasured time with her family, particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jan was predeceased by her father, Sterling Hilton; her mother, Jeannette Hilton; and her stepmother, Hazel Blaisdell (Hilton).

She is survived by her partner of many years, Jacqueline Martel; her daughters, Kathy Degrechie (Jeff), Judy Chick (Mike), Susan Hussey, Sally Nelson (James Pennell), and Nancy Rodriguez (Steven); as well as ten grandchildren and many great-grandchildren.

A celebration of Jan’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Stony Brook Cooperative Clubhouse located at 53 Tradewind Lane, Rochester, NH.

To view Jeannette's Online Tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.csnh.com.