Nelson was born October 26, 1935, in Nacogdoches, TX. The family moved to Houston, TX, after World War II ended. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Houston in 1960. He worked for the Texas Highway Department Houston District until his retirement in 1993. In July 2025, he moved to Arlington, TX, to be nearer to his daughter’s family.
Nelson was a fervent believer in Christ. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle, and was always willing to lend a hand to help anyone.
Survivors—Daughter Denise, son-in-law Kent, daughter-in-law Heather, grandchildren Heath, Christopher, Helena, and Gene, and two brothers, Howard and Gene; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was also a friend to many.
Preceded in death by parents C.C. and Effie; parents-in-law James and Lucy; wife of over 50 years, Frances; son Gregory; sisters-in-law Jeanie, Catherine, Nadine, Gerry, and Marjorie; brothers-in-law Ralph and Ed; nephews James Leonard, Byron, David, and Andrew.
A visitation will be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Moore Bowen Road Funeral Home, 4216 S. Bowen Rd., Arlington, TX 76016.
Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 5819 W. Pleasant Ridge Road, Arlington, TX 76016.
Committal service is to follow at 3:00 p.m., at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Cemetery, 1620 CR 352, Nacogdoches, TX 75961.
