Thomas W Nelson

Thomas William Nelson (Tom) passed away on December 3, 2025, at 93 years of age, from complications of dementia.

He was born in the Bronx, NY, on April 6, 1932, to Thomas and Wilhelmina (“Minnie”) Soyer Nelson.

Tom was predeceased by his parents; his sisters, Dolores Fitzsimmons and Patricia Ziel; his infant brother, George Nelson; his beloved wife, Maureen, in September 2025; and his daughter, Carol Lynn, in August 2025.

Tom married the love of his life, Maureen Bailey, on October 20, 1956. Together they raised four children: Dona Adler (Scott); Jean Rice (James); Carol Nelson; and Thomas Nelson III.

They began their married life in the Bronx before moving to Spring Valley, Rockland County, NY, in 1963, and ultimately settling in West Nyack in 1968, where they lived for 34 years.

He was “Poppy” to eight adoring grandchildren—Bryan Rice (Erin); Peter Rice (Sarah); Daniel Fagan; Steven Gooler (Charlotte); Alex Kolonics; Emma Nelson; Lily Nelson; and Aidan Nelson—and was step-grandfather to Zach Adler and Dylan Adler.

He is also survived by his beloved great-grandchildren—Makenna, Keira, and Thomas (children of Bryan and Erin); Audrey (daughter of Steven and Charlotte); his step–great-granddaughter, Layla Mae (daughter of Zach and Carly Adler); and a loving extended family circle.

Tom knew no strangers. He was the kind of man who became a cherished friend to anyone he met. Gentle, easygoing, endlessly humorous, and unshakably patient, he took everything in stride. He was the ultimate family man—steadfast, generous, and devoted.

Tom served in the U.S. Army for two years during the Korean War. After marrying, he proudly spent 20 years as a New York City police officer.

A natural craftsman, Tom had a lifelong talent for creating and fixing things. He built furniture, artwork, and intricate model ships. After retiring from the police service, he turned those skills into a second career as one of Rockland County’s most sought-after handymen—work that kept him busy and fulfilled for many years.

After becoming empty-nesters, Tom and Maureen moved to The Villages, Florida, in 2001 where they enjoyed a vibrant retirement filled with golfing, traveling, bowling, and an active social life.

With broken hearts, we will say goodbye as Tom and Maureen are inurned together at St. Anthony’s Church, 36 W Nyack Rd, Nanuet, NY 10954.

Time and date to be announced.

A Celebration of Life reception for family and friends is planned for May 2, 2026, in West Nyack, NY.

Please join us. Contact Dona Adler at [email protected] or call/text 845-542-0835 for additional details.