Ellis Edgar Nelson

Ellis proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War, where he was the recipient of three Bronze Star Service Awards. After leaving the Army, Ellis attended East Carolina University and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. After graduating he began his career with Kenneth Spruill which later became part of McGladrey and Pullen Accounting Firm.

He was a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church and volunteered his services as the bookkeeper for many years. One of Ellis's favorite pastimes was baseball so when the opportunity to coach Temple's Baseball teams came up, he was thrilled to step up. He coached both the "Pee Wee" and "Little League" teams for 8 years. Then took over the role of coach, and played second base, for the Men's softball team. Ellis was a loyal member of the Civitan Club and served a term as President. Serving others was one of Ellis' greatest attributes. All who knew Ellis will greatly miss the gentle spirit and kindness he shared with everyone he met.

Ellis retired early and dedicated the next 20 plus years to his grandchildren. "Super Grandpa" would be such an understatement. He was there to cheer them on at every event but also was there to support and comfort them during trying times. On one occasion Ellis visited Ella's classroom when he entered the room she said, "Stop what you're doing my Papa is here." We can imagine his son, grandson, siblings, and parents saying the same thing as he entered into Heaven on Saturday, October 30, 2021.

He is survived by a son, Greg Nelson, and wife, Jennifer; daughter, Kara Joyce, and husband, Tim; grandchildren, Gregory Nelson II, Taylor Nelson, Nathan Nelson, Brett Nelson, Walker Joyce, and Ellis Joyce; brother, Jimmy Nelson; mother of his children and friend Nellie Thalman; and many loving nephews and nieces.

Ellis is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie and Lillian Nelson; son, Kevin Nelson; grandson, Trevor Nelson; and nine brothers and sisters.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Ellis' honor to Craven County Hospice, located PO Drawer 12610, New Bern, North Carolina 28561, or by visiting www.cravencountyhospice.com/donations

A Celebration of Ellis' Life will be held at 2:00 PM at Cotten Funeral Home on Sunday, November 14, 2021. Ellis will be laid to rest at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, North Carolina with military honors on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 12:00 Noon.

The family would like to thank our faithful caregivers Millie Tatum, Angie Joseph, the staff of Craven County Hospice, which include Patricia, Joy, Corey, Jennifer, and April. Thanks also to our prior Hospice family Valerie, Rebecca, and Kesha. There are two people that Ellis and other family members are very grateful to, Greg and Jennifer Nelson for the committed care and love they gave the last four years.

Cotten Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the family and friends of Ellis Edgar Nelson.