Mrs. Nellie Jane Gaston

Nellie Jane (Jordan) Gaston, 88, passed away peacefully at Golden Oaks Residential Board in Follansbee on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Born in Salem, Pennsylvania, on July 26, 1937, she was the beloved daughter of William and Dorothy Brown Jordan and a cherished sister to her seven siblings.

A graduate of Chester High School in 1955, Nellie married Leonard James Gaston and together they created a warm and loving home centered on family and faith. As a devoted homemaker, she brought everyone together for outings filled with laughter and lasting memories. She was an active member of Oakland Presbyterian Church, where her faith and sense of community were deeply rooted. Nellie and Leonard shared a joyful love of square dancing and clogging, and her passion for country and gospel music often filled their gatherings with song. She was known for her infectious spirit, her grace, and her humor, especially as a proud member of the Red Hats. Her legendary potato salad and refreshing iced tea were staples at every family event.

In addition to her parents, Nellie was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard James Gaston; her sister Fran Kesner; and her granddaughter Ashlee Wade.

She is survived by her children, James Allan Gaston of Wheeling, Barbara Gayle Wade of Weirton, and Cindy Lou (Gary) Ensminger of Colliers; her brothers Harry Jordan of Brookville, Pennsylvania, Paul Jordan of Cincinnati, and Lee (Dawn) Jordan of Brookville; her sisters Dolores Hart of Brookville, Pearl (Glen) Byerly of State College, Pennsylvania, and Linda Dorn of Cincinnati; her grandchildren Brittani Wade, Carly (Jared) Coldwell, and Jared (Chelsea) Heilman; and nine great-grandchildren.