CAMDEN — Leeann Marie Nelson, 50, died Jan. 6, 2016, at Pen Bay Medical Center after an illness. Born in Camden on May 4, 1965, she was the daughter of Ralph E. and Peggy (Mahonen) Nelson.

Leeann grew up in Camden, always taking care of her three younger brothers, and a cousin, who was part of the family. She attended schools in Camden and was a member of the Class of 1983 at Camden-Rockport High School. In 1990, she married Richard Ames and had two sons.

A "tomboy" at heart who possessed a very strong work ethic, Leeann could do the work of any man having once worked as a roofing contractor. Her passion for gardening enabled her to own a landscaping and gardening business as well as work for Farley & Son Landscaping for a number of years.

A high spirited and competitive member of Northend Composites adult softball team, Leeann enjoyed playing and celebrating the team's many successful seasons. She loved nothing more than to ride in her Jeep with the top down, cruising along back roads of coastal towns.

At age 38, Leeann was involved in a serious car accident when she swerved to avoid hitting two deer. The accident left her in a quadriplegic state, followed by months of intense and rigorous rehabilitation. After an extended hospital stay, Leeann lived independently in Camden for nine years, with the assistance of personal caregivers at home, and two years at Quarry Hill.

Leeann moved to beautiful Appleton Ridge, a place that brought her great peace and tranquility. This would not have been possible without the constant care and support of her cousin, best friend and caregiver, Doreen Parent, and several other close friends including Kim Pendleton and Heather Lablanc.

Leeann touched the lives of many through her positive attitude, her courage and independent spirit, seldom asking for help from anyone. The caregivers at Windward Gardens in Camden have cared for Leeann for the past eight months, providing much compassion and tender loving care, which is greatly appreciated by her friends and family.

Surviving are her sons, Christopher and Garrett Ames; her parents, Ralph E. "Buzzy" Nelson Jr. and his wife, Kelly, of Lincolnville, and Peggy Nelson of Cushing; three brothers, James "Bub" Nelson and his wife, Sarah, and Travis Nelson and his wife, Lynn, all of Searsmont, and Todd Nelson and his companion, Courtney Donato, of Camden; several nieces, nephews and cousins, including Jay Mahonen; and her former husband, Richard Ames. Also surviving is her devoted friend and caregiver, Doreen Parent and her parents, Randy and Lillian Hannan, who thought of Leeann as a daughter; and many dear friends.

She was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Amos and Viola Mahonen; and her paternal grandparents, Ralph E. Nelson Sr. and Arabele Nelson.

A memorial gathering will be announced at a later date.

If desired, memorial gifts may be made to the Patient Activities Fund, c/o Windward Gardens, 106 Mechanic Street, Camden, ME 04843.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service.