Mary Nell Jackson Hood was born October 9, 1935, in Anderson, Texas in Grimes County to the union of Ed and Pearline Jackson. She was the youngest of XX children. Family and friends affectionately called her "Nell". She accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age at XX Baptist Church. Nell finished high school in Anderson, Texas and soon after moved to Houston.

Not long after arriving in Houston, she met and married Emiel Hood, Jr. and to that union two daughters were born, Debra Diane and Jeanette. Nell was a member of the Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Gusta Booker, Sr. on Jutland for over 50 years and was active in the Celestial Voices Choir, and president of the Senior Mission for over 14 years. With the help of faithful members, the Senior Mission was able to organize a food bank, establish a Clothing and Community Food Ministry. Prior to the food ministry, they would serve the community with cheese and butter monthly. As president of the Senior Mission, Nell was able to steer financial support to the Julia C. Hester House, as well as other local organizations. This same group volunteered with the seniors at the Hester House. In recent months Sister Mary Nell changed her membership to the Garden of Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Dr. Robert E. Daniels, Sr. Nell was also a member of the Queen of the South Grand Chapter Order of the Eastern Star for over 60 years. Over the years, Sister Mary Nell served as Worthy Matron of Queen Mary Chapter Number 10, O.E.S. Grand Associate Matron and Grand Matron. She traveled regularly to the national conventions and participated in local activities, such Feast of Nations and the Prayer Breakfast. Nell was known to support and participate in other local Eastern Star activities.

Nell's career included office manager for Mouritsen's Bakery, and a private caregiver for several families throughout Houston. She retired after more than 50 years of service to others. After Nell retired, she loved to travel, entertain family and friends and nurtured five generations of family. Nell served as the "matriarch" of the family.

Mary Nell was feisty, spirited and outspoken, but truthful. Nell always had a mischievous smile on her face. Nell is preceded in death by parents and her siblings. She leaves to cherish her loving memory, her two daughters, Debra Diane Crumb and Jeanette Hunter. Three grandchildren Nicole Crumb, Antionette White and Anthony T. Hunter, II (Shanese). Eight great-grandchildren Kenneth Richardson, II (Brittnee), Christian White, Charity White, Hayley Hunter, Kennedy Coleman, Evan Jammer, Anthony T. Hunter, III, and Eran Jammer. Three great-great grandchildren Kenneth Richardson, III, Kace Richardson and Bralyn Sanchez, II. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends and adopted Goddaughters. Also, the special friendship of James and Carrin Derrick.