Roy Francis Nelson

Roy Francis Nelson age 86, of Tucson, AZ, passed away on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at St Joseph’s Hospital. Roy was born on March 30, 1938, in Collinsville, Il, a son of the late Charles L and Irene M (Long) Nelson.

He was raised primarily in Edwardsville, Illinois, where he still has many friends and family.

Roy married his wife, Doris Sue Ivy, in 1962 in her hometown of Albuquerque, NM. They moved to Edwardsville in 1965 where they lived, worked and raised their children. Roy and Doris then moved their family to Tucson in the summer of 1979.

In addition to his parents, Roy was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Doris Sue (Ivy) Nelson, a brother, Tom Nelson, and sister-in-law, Carol Nelson.

He is survived by his loving family: a daughter, Ivy Sue (Jose) German of Tucson, AZ; a daughter, a son Michael Dean (Sally) Nelson of Tucson, AZ, a daughter Laura Jane (Tony) Thurman of Thornton, CO, and a devoted brother, Bob (Colleen) Nelson of Edwardsville, IL.

He leaves the legacy of 7 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.

He retired couple of times. The first time as a truck driver at 65. He operated service trucks for New Pueblo and Tanner and Granite Construction. He worked in the yard for San Xavier Rock and Mineral during the flood of 1983. He drove delivery trucks for Tucson Mechanical, Crow Flexible Pipe and Arizona Openings, just to name a few.

The second time he retired as a driver for National Car Rental at the age of 79. He almost always had a job and was seldom without employment. It began as a young boy delivering St Louis Sunday newspapers using a cart with metal wheels, pushing it through the streets of Edwardsville over many brick and sometimes icy or snow covered streets. He then finally ended his days of employment in March of 2017.

Roy was always a devoted and hardworking individual who considered himself quite fortunate for the opportunity’s life afforded him.

He overcame personal obstacles and always provided for his family, often at his own expense. He had affinity for maps and traveling. Roy enjoyed the company and caring for dogs and cats. He also enjoyed sharing stories of his past. Roy was known for his sense of humor, even up to his final breaths. He will be greatly missed.

Papa Roy’s family is very grateful to his neighbors who were a blessing to him, they made sure he ate well and was seldom lonely. We would also like to acknowledge the outstanding Pharmacy staff at his favorite Walmart Neighborhood Market.

A visitation for Roy will be held Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Funeraria del Angel South Lawn, 5401 South Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706. A funeral service will occur Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5401 South Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706. A graveside service will occur Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM at South Lawn Cemetery, 5401 S Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706. A reception will occur Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 12:30 PM to 3:00 PM, 5401 South Park Ave, Tucson, AZ 85706.