Nellie Pauline Book

Nellie Pauline (Virgin) Book, 81 of Chillicothe, Ohio passed peacefully to Paradise on March 12, 2026, surrounded by her children. She was born on May 13, 1944 in Portsmouth, Ohio to the late Oscar and Ada (Schwamberger) Virgin. She was predeceased 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, Ohio, 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 another expected in September 2026, Sister Janet Parker of Portsmouth, Ohio.

Nellie was a member of the Scioto Valley Church of Christ, Chillicothe, Ohio. She was a graduate and proud member of “The class of 62” Portsmouth West High School. She consistently attended and participated in regular gatherings and class reunions, maintaining lifelong friendships with her class mates.

Nellie was “Nana” to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved taking them on spur of the moment adventures. She never feared a challenge and her vibrant and carefree attitude created many memorable moments. From using pepsi crates as booster seats to primitive camping at the ocean, she didn’t hesitate to ensure that they all got to enjoy precious time with her and each other. She spent many days and hours “babysitting” her grandchildren and loved doing it. She always made the best out of every situation and would not be deterred. She was well known for making sure that “her people” knew how blessed they were, no whining or complaining was going to be tolerated or supported. She always had a story or facts to share to encourage you to count your blessings, even in the storms.

She was “Favorite Aunt Nellie” to all of her nieces and nephews, many of whom were loved by her like her own children. She was fun to be around and there were many memories made and countless laughs throughout the years. She had a special place in her heart for each and every one of them.

Nellie was a school bus driver for many years for Washington Nile School District. She was well known as the “best” bus driver and was loved by those she drove for. She often chose the “hardest routes” to drive as she saw it as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of her students. She had a way of finding “the best in the worst” in an attempt to help others. “Love, Praise and Recognition” was her motto and she utilized that belief to help others make better life choices and to achieve overall better attitudes. Nellie then moved to Chillicothe, Ohio and opened an Adult Care Facility where she proudly served as a caretaker for Disabled Veterans and residents with mental health issues. Nellie never suffered from the “empty nest syndrome” as she provided care for others, while raising her children, for more than 30 years. The residents of her facility were family to her and her children/grandchildren. She took them on trips to many places, including Disney World. She was a strong and effective advocate for Mental Health clients and Disabled Veterans care across the state of Ohio. She spent countless hours attending conferences, hearings and through direct conversations with state leaders demanding improved services for the most vulnerable and deserving individuals. Her efforts resulted in improved care and benefits across the state.

Calling hours and visitation will be Wednesday March 18, 5:00-7:00pm, Services will be on Thursday March 19 at 1:00pm at Haller Funeral Home, 1661 Western Avenue, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601. Friends will be received from 12:00 to service time. Harold Rutledge, Evangelist, (friend, therapist, counselor, confidant and like a son) to Nellie for many years will officiate the services. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made in her name to Truth and Reason, PO Box 123, Buffalo, Indiana 47925 to further her support of teaching God’s word and supporting the children of Kenya, Gambia and India.