Robert Lawrence Nelson, known affectionately as “Bobby” was born to his late mother Margie Nelson of Harrisonburg, VA. Robert was born November 9,1944 and took his eternal resting place among the Heavens on May 23, 2024. Robert was a lifelong resident of Harrisonburg, VA where he made a career as a supervisor at Luck Stone Rock Quarry.
Robert was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. His life and legacy are deeply interwoven within the community he loved and served. Robert’s early years were shared with his brother Frankie, creating memories that were filled with laughter and camaraderie. Robert was a quiet man who let his actions speak for himself. He found serenity in nature and enjoyed fishing and hunting when he found the time.
In 1996, Robert married Emma Tolliver of Harrisonburg, VA. Together, they embarked on a journey of love, partnership, and family. They did not share any children together, but their union gained him four bonus children who he treated like his own. Robert will always be remembered as a generous man who was kind, fair, and enjoyed having a good meal at his favorite restaurant Wood Grill.
Throughout his years, Robert made meaningful and lasting connections with several people, his memory is honored and kept alive by everyone who knew and loved him. He leaves behind his beloved wife of twenty-eight years, Emma Nelson, one brother, Frankie Nelson of Harrisonburg, six children: Felissa Brown, Annette (Carl) Ward, Frances (Henry) Brown, Crystal Green, Bobby Madden, Makeba (Cheryl) Carter, 19 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren, 12 great-great grandchildren, one nephew, Ben Nelson, four bonus children: Sara Tolliver, Emma “Angel” Tolliver, William “Tony” Tolliver, and Gary “Doo” Tolliver, and one additional bonus son, Robert Carter. Sadly, Robert was preceded in death by two of his children, Robert and Andra Nelson.
Robert “Bobby” Nelson was a man of few words who lived a simple yet full life. He will be deeply missed, but we can find comfort in knowing that he knew the Lord and has been welcomed home.
