About
Meet Jayme Nelson, Owner of Blue Heron Doula Services
Hi, I’m Jayme Nelson — an End-of-Life Doula based in Sioux Falls, SD.
I’m deeply passionate about supporting individuals and families through some of life’s most tender and challenging moments. My path led me to work as a pediatric chaplain, where I learned to hold space in times of profound grief — offering comfort, presence, and compassion in the face of heartbreak.
Over the years, I’ve walked alongside people navigating life-limiting illnesses, terminal diagnoses, and the emotional weight of anticipatory loss. I support not only those who are dying, but also their loved ones — helping to create space for honest conversations, meaningful connection, and tools to process grief.
My mission is to be a steady, empathetic presence for those facing life’s hardest goodbyes — bringing peace, clarity, and gentle guidance amid uncertainty and sorrow. You don’t have to walk this path alone. I am here to walk with you.


My Family
Family is so important to me and I love the one I am in. I’ve been married to my incredible husband, Devon, for 27 years, and together we’re proud parents to two amazing young adult daughters, Emma and Ava. Emma introduced us to our wonderful son-in-law, Noah, and we cherish the time we spend together as a family. Whether we’re playing board games, kayaking, golfing, or simply enjoying a delicious meal around the table, those moments bring us closer together and are a reminder of what truly matters.
Credentials
Training & Education
End of Life Doula Training
I completed specialized training and plan to work towards certification through INELDA, the International End-of-Life Doula Association. This training, combined with my vocational and life experiences, have equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge to offer comprehensive support to individuals and families during the end of life process.
Hospital Chaplain
For over three years, I have worked as a hospital chaplain with a specialty in pediatric chaplaincy. Through my time at the hospital, I have learned to support patients and families from all walks of life and from many different faith backgrounds. I have a wealth of experience in navigating difficult conversations, advocating for individuals and providing a loving, peaceful and supportive presence during difficult and painful times.
Clinical Pastoral Education
4 units = 1600 Clinical Hours
Clinical Pastoral Education is interfaith professional education for ministry. It brings theological students and ministers of all faiths (pastors, priests, rabbis, imams and others) into supervised encounters with persons in crisis. Out of an intense involvement with persons in need, and the feedback from peers and educators, students develop new awareness of themselves as persons and of the needs of those to whom they minister. From theological reflection on specific human situations, they gain a new understanding of ministry. Within the interdisciplinary team process of helping persons, they develop skills in interpersonal and inter-professional relationships. -ACPE
Master of Divinity
Kairos University
May 31st, 2024
Values & Strengths
The values that guide me through life are:
​
-
love
-
faith
-
community
My strengths* include:
​
-
Communication
-
Woo
-
Positivity
-
Developer
-
Input
*CliftonStrengths​
Recognition
-
Sanford Star Performance, Nurse Award Nominee, 2025
-
Sanford HERO Award for Calling, Jan 2023
-
SIOUXPERHERO Citizen Award, 2018
-
Sioux Falls Humanitarian Award Nominee, 2013
-
Tribute to Women "Tomorrow' Leader" Nominee, 2012



