Thelma Rebertha Nelson (August 11, 1944 – June 21, 2026)

Visitation: Friday, July 10, 2026
Visitation Time: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Visitation Location: Postell’s Mortuary Chapel
811 North Powers Drive
Orlando, Florida

Service Date: Saturday, July 11, 2026
Service Time: 11:00 AM
Service Location: Grace Bible Church of Central Florida
801 Dorscher Road
Orlando, Florida

Obituary:

Thelma Rebertha Nelson, 81, a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, auntie, cousin, designer, mentor, and friend. She is affectionately known as the fabulous “TJ” and loved by many as “TJ the Designer,” peacefully entered eternal rest on June 21, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at her home in Orlando, FL. She was 81 years old, though anyone who knew TJ’s funny personality knew she would proudly tell you she was only “18 !”

Her joyful spirit, infectious smile, and youthful heart remained with her throughout her life. Born on August 11, 1944, in Davyton District, Manchester, Jamaica, TJ was the daughter of the late Vinette Scott and Leonard Denton. As the second eldest of her siblings, she assumed great responsibility at a young age, compassionately and lovingly caring for her brothers and sisters after her mother relocated to London. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering sense of family became defining qualities that remained with her throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Trevor Williams and Arnold Williams, and beloved son-in-law Joseph Stewart.

TJ leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her children, Carl Shortridge (Annette Shortridge), Dionne Espeut-Stewart, Lewitt Jones Jr., and Kim Jones; her beloved grandchildren, Jovan Mitchell, Janel Mitchell, Jalani Mitchell, and Lauren Shortridge; her sisters, Claudette Samuels and Shirleen Denton; her brothers, Devon Denton and Donald Sweeney; along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends whose lives she enriched.

From an early age, TJ discovered an extraordinary gift for creativity. While attending Bellfield and Chantily Schools in Jamaica, she began sewing clothes for her dolls using the sewing machine of Miss Rose Morgan. Her passion for fashion continued as she studied dressmaking and hairdressing, developing the remarkably gifted talents that would become her life’s work. TJ became an exceptional seamstress. She quickly became known for sewing beautiful clothing for family and friends and later earned recognition for designing elegant wedding gowns and custom fashion designs. Before immigrating, she worked at the Forestry Department in Williamsfield, Jamaica.

In November 1970, she moved to Boston, Massachusetts, determined to create greater opportunities for her family. There she worked a variety of jobs while making countless sacrifices to support her children and eventually bring them to the United States.
Through every challenge, she remained resilient, hardworking, and steadfast- trusting God, working tirelessly and keeping her dreams in clear view. TJ continued her studies in cosmetology at Mansfield Beauty Academy while in Boston in 1977. Her perseverance paid off and later became a small business owner, she established TJ the Designer Boutique, where her talent for fashion flourished. She became widely known for her beautiful designs, fashion shows, interior designs, upholstery recovering, custom draperies, and an impeccable eye for style. She later founded TJ Cleaning Service, which was another successful venture in Orlando. TJ was an exceptional cook. She shared her culinary talents—many considered her a chef whose meals brought family and friends together around the table.

TJ was a gifted event planner who organized numerous community fundraisers, including fish fries that supported worthy causes. Along with her brother Devon, she was a promoter of Jamaican comedy shows in the Orlando area for several years. She also served as a doula, helping mothers welcome new life with compassion and care. A woman of deep faith and generosity, TJ dedicated much of her life to serving others. She used her talents to uplift others and poured her heart into her community. TJ fed the homeless every Thanksgiving for many years. She not only prepared the meals, but drove, delivered, and served them personally.

She also mentored and empowered women who had experienced domestic violence giving them hope and confidence.TJ served as the matriarch of the Power of Sisterhood Ministry, where she encouraged women to walk confidently in faith and purpose. Through missionary work, she regularly sent barrels of clothing and supplies to families in need throughout Jamaica.

At Grace Bible Church, she joyfully prepared meals for visiting guests from overseas and served wherever there was a need. TJ was truly larger than life. TJ loved dancing from a young age. She even won dance contests. She was always the life of any party or gathering especially when she hosted get togethers at her home.
TJ was independent, courageous, and unapologetically straightforward. She never backed down from a challenge and always stood firmly for what she believed. She made countless sacrifices for those she loved and faithfully served as both mother and father to her children. She was their greatest supporter, their loudest cheerleader, and a constant source of wisdom and encouragement for her entire family. Her faith sustained her through every season of life, including two courageous battles with cancer. She faced each challenge with remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering trust in God, inspiring everyone around her with her perseverance and hope.

TJ’s legacy is one of love, resilience, service, creativity, and faith. She leaves behind not only beautiful memories but also countless lives forever changed by her kindness, generosity, and unwavering devotion to family, friends, and community. Though she is no longer with us in body, her love, laughter, wisdom, and vibrant spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Your light will forever shine. Rest peacefully, TJ… You were deeply loved, and your legacy will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026 from 4-6PM at the mortuary. A service of celebration will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, 11:00 AM at Grace Bible Church of Central Florida, 801 Dorscher Road, Orlando with Pastor Gene Pritchard, officiating. Final services and burial will take place under the direction of Lyn’s Funeral Home in Manchester, Jamaica, W.I.