Edward Lee Nelson Sr.

Edward Lee Nelson Sr., age 70, passed away peacefully on February 16 at 2:59 a.m. He was born in Little Rock, Arkansas, and was raised in North Little Rock, Arkansas, where he built a life rooted in hard work, faith, and devotion to family.

Edward was self-employed and known as a tireless worker. He believed deeply in responsibility and independence and was committed to ensuring his children became self-sufficient. He was a loving father—firm when needed, but always guided by care and purpose. Those who knew him understood that his strength came from love, and his discipline came from wanting better for those he loved.

He enjoyed fishing and repairing trucks, finding peace and purpose in working with his hands. Years before his passing, Edward gave his life to Christ, a decision that reflected the faith and values he carried forward in his later years. Above all else, he truly loved his family.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Grathey Lee Nelson Sr. and Berthola Harris Nelson; his stepmother, Olivia Lloyd Nelson; and his siblings Ora Marie Nelson Crudup, Dorthey Nelson Flint, Livia Nelson, and Pervis Lloyd Nelson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children:

Jessica “Tina” Jackson; Edward Lee Nelson Jr., Shawntana Orlando Nelson, Reginald Tomarra Nelson, Derrick Lee Nelson, Shalanda Gail Nelson, Marvin Lee Nelson, and

He is also survived by his siblings: Leola Nelson Munu, Lisa Nelson, Grathey Lee “Marlow” Nelson Jr. (Carla), Christine Nelson, Lue Nelson Hood (Tommy), Paul Nelson, and Zerna Brown Nelson (Burks-Jarrett); his aunts Ella Harris, Carla Harris, and Mary Lloyd; and his brothers-in-law Riley Flint and Mark Crudup, along with a host of extended family and loved ones.

Edward Lee Nelson Sr. will forever be remembered for his work ethic, his faith, his guidance, and the legacy he leaves through his children and family.