Nelson Davis Wakefield

Nelson Davis “Buck” Wakefield, 99, passed away on October 20, 2022. Nelson was born on March 7, 1923, to Charles and Sue (Carroll) Wakefield in Charleston. After graduating from Charleston High School, Nelson started work at Western Union in Fort Smith. Shortly after beginning work, he was invited to spend the next four years serving our country in the Army Air Corps Ninth Air Force. Most of that time he spent as a staff sergeant in the European Theater supporting a bomber group of B-26 Martin Marauders. After WW II he returned to Western Union and met a new employee, Betty Lineback. Eight months later they began a wonderful 75-year marriage. When Western Union closed its office 30 years later, Nelson went to work as office manager for Parker Solvents where he stayed until he was 81 years old.

Nelson was one of the happiest and most pleasant people you could ever meet. His number one love was people, most of all his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Baseball, westerns, collecting coins and Betty’s cooking weren’t far behind. He never met a stranger, especially if there was a baby nearby. Nelson and Betty have been longtime members of South 46th Street Church of Christ. Nelson was loved by everyone who knew him. He will be missed.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Betty Wakefield, children Steve (Jeri) Wakefield of Dallas, TX., Dick (Jane) Wakefield of Fayetteville, Julie Wakefield of Fort Smith, Eddie (Jeannie) Wakefield of Alma, 10 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren and 1 great great grandchild.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brothers Scooter, Jerry, and Gray.

Special thanks to Bethany, Emily, Joe, Kay, and the compassionate nurses, doctors and staff of Mercy Hospice.

If you would like to make a donation in Nelson’s honor, please consider The National WWII Museum in New Orleans.