Nellie Pauline Book

Nellie Pauline Book, 81, of Chillicothe, Ohio, passed peacefully on March 12, 2026, surrounded by her children. Born on May 13, 1944, in Portsmouth, Ohio, to the late Oscar and Ada (Schwamberger) Virgin, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and advocate for others throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by the father of her five children, John A. Book; daughter Jannelle J. Book; granddaughter Leah A. J. Stotridge; grandson Jesse A. Book; sister Gayle R. Detillion; and brother and sister-in-law Everett and Norma Virgin. Nellie is survived by her children Lillian Book, Linda Book, John Book, and Andrea (Gary) Smith, all of Chillicothe; grandchildren Kevin (Samantha) Williams, Joshua (Amanda) Book, Justin Book, Kyle (Chelsea) Williams, Hannah Stotridge, Faith Smith, and Glen “G” Stotridge; great-grandchildren Kadence and Scarlett Williams, Baylor and Barrett Book, and one expected in September 2026; and sister Janet Parker of Portsmouth, Ohio.

A proud graduate of the Portsmouth West High School Class of 1962, Nellie cherished her lifelong friendships and regularly attended class reunions. She was a longtime member of the Scioto Valley Church of Christ. Known affectionately as “Nana” to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she created countless joyful memories through spontaneous adventures, primitive camping trips, and patient, loving care. She had a vibrant, fearless spirit and a firm belief in counting one’s blessings, often sharing stories and encouragement to help others maintain a positive outlook even in difficult times.

To her many nieces and nephews, she was “Favorite Aunt Nellie,” treating them with the same warmth and affection she gave her own children. She worked for many years as a school bus driver for the Washington Nile School District, where she was beloved for choosing the most challenging routes and making a positive difference in her students’ lives. Later, she moved to Chillicothe and opened an adult care facility, where she devoted more than thirty years to caring for disabled veterans and individuals with mental health challenges. She considered her residents part of her extended family, taking them on trips and tirelessly advocating at the state level for improved care and services. Her motto of “Love, Praise and Recognition” guided her in helping others make better choices and lead fuller lives.