Mr. William Edward Nelson, Jr.'s Obituary
Mr. William Edward "Ed" Nelson, Jr. Dadeville, AL, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2023 at home with his wife and son by his side. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023 at 1:00 pm at Beulah Baptist Church-5891 Lovelady Rd, Dadeville, Al 36853.
Ed was born on June 15, 1949 in Montgomery, AL. He was the son of William Edward Nelson, Sr. and Mary Malone Nelson. Ed’s educational journey began at Lee High School where he graduated Class of 1967. While attending high school, he became quite the football star playing in the 1966 State Championship game between Lee and Lanier. Ed’s love for nature led him to Auburn University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Forestry in 1971, followed by a Master's degree in Ag Economics. His academic pursuits laid the foundation for his successful career in forestry and agriculture.
Ed's professional life was as diverse as it was fulfilling. Upon graduating from Auburn, he started his career at Buchanan Lumber Company, where he would also meet the love of his life and future bride of 49 years, Jerona Trammell. Ed’s commitment to service extended to the United States Army Reserve, where he achieved the rank of Lt. Colonel by the time of his retirement. Ed’s dedication to his work was evident when he achieved the position of Regional Manager for the Federal Land Bank (Alabama Ag Credit), a position he held until his retirement at age 63.
Retirement for Ed was everything he'd dreamed of. He and Jerona reveled in the tranquility of Lake Martin, where they hosted memorable July 4th, Thanksgiving, and other holiday celebrations for family and friends. Ed loved his Lord and Savior and never doubted his eternity. He was a faithful member of Beulah Baptist Church where he taught Sunday School for 23 years. He had a deep commitment to his family. He loved his beautiful wife and they affectionately referred to each other as “my sunshine.” During his two weeks at boot camp, Jerona remembers that she purchased their first home without Ed every seeing it, but he loved it. He loved being a father to his son, Will, and his nieces and nephews have many loving memories of Ed’s joy and playfulness.
Ed is survived by his devoted wife, Jerona Trammell Nelson; loving son, William “Will” Edward Nelson, III; sisters, Malone Nelson Pilgrim (Carl), Elizabeth Nelson Still, Nancy Nelson Bowden; sisters-in-law, Jan T. Lennon (Wayne), Anna T. Smart (David); nieces and nephews, Jennifer Pilgrim Loard (Wes), Julie Pilgrim Cowden (Brett), Mary Ruth Pilgrim, Emily Still Fink (Randy), Britt B. Griggs (Paul), David Smart, Jr. (Jennifer), Hunter B. Smart (Joni), David Still (Erin); great nieces and nephews, Hannah Grace Griggs, Eli Griggs, Eva Smart, Jernigan Rae Smart, Ellie Smart, Catherine Cowden Byram (Grayson), Elizabeth Cowden, Mary Louise Cowden, John Wesley Loard, Camilla Loard, Vivy Fink, Walter Fink, Watson Fink, Ellie Still, Warner Still; He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Nelson; and brothers-in-law, Charles Still, Harold Bowden.
In the words of Mother Teresa, "Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier." Ed embodied this sentiment, leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met. His kindness, love, and faith-filled life will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Ed was a beacon of kindness, love, and faith-filled devotion to his community. His goodness will live on in the many loving memories and in the hearts that love him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Ed's favorite charity, WORLD VISION, or to Beulah Baptist Church.
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