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Celebrating the life of
Vernon Nelson
Passed away on June 01, 2022
One of the best of the best has finally gotten his wish to rejoin the love of his life, his beloved wife, Erin. There wasn’t a day that he didn’t miss her.
William Vernon Nelson was born June 20, 1927, in the kitchen of his parents’ home in Thunderbolt, Georgia. His mother then proceeded to finish making lunch for the rest of the family. She’d had practice. Vernon was number six of seven. His parents were Holley Tilson Nelson and Rachel Rosetta (Ettie) McDaniel.
He was quick to tell you that he graduated 3rd in his class at Marlow Consolidated High School, and just as quick to tell you that there were only 9 in the class.
Together, Erin and Vernon raised 3 stairstep boys. December 1950, April 1952, and September 1953. If you made friends with one you got two bonus friends. They bought the house with the biggest backyard, and it became infested with boys.
Vernon began his career working in the automotive parts business. In 1975 he took the plunge to start his own business, Nelson Truck Parts, from which he retired in 1992.
Vernon was a gifted athlete and after retirement took up golf. He was proud of "taking them old men’s money" in the Senior Blitz at Bacon Park. As part of that he met Howard Cohen who introduced him to weightlifting. In his first competition he took a bronze medal in the Pan American Games. Following that auspicious start, he won a silver medal in the World Masters in 2003 followed by a gold medal in the US Masters in 2006, and numerous other medals along the way. He played semi-pro baseball with a shot at the minors but chose family instead.
Vernon and Erin were long time members of the Adult Choir at St. Thomas Episcopal Church and performed with the Savannah Madrigal Singers and the Savannah Symphony Chorale.
He is survived by his three sons; Michael Bryan Nelson (Laurie) Kerry Thomas Nelson (Beth) David Monroe Nelson (Renee); Grandchildren Kerry, Rachel, Shane, Asa, and Jaquelyn; and one great-granddaughter, Leah.
Visitation will be Friday, June 3, 2022 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel. A private burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that you consider a donation in Vernon’s memory to St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2 St. Thomas Ave, Savannah, GA 31406.
We look forward to greeting Vernon and Erin in paradise. God promises to satisfy the desire of every living thing. What a beautiful family and legacy given the generation to come. With appreciation for the kingdom by Christ being the solution to death. Isaiah 9:6,7, John 5:28,29 This heavenly government will do away with pain, sickness, and death. Rev21:3,4 Please be comforted. JW.org “Enjoy Life Forever” Love and Prayer, Sandy Wirfs
- Sandy wirfs, Monroe,, Louisiana
I am so sorry for your loss. I am part of the team that goes to The Oaks every Sunday to do a church service for the residents. Vernon was always there. He was my special resident and friend. No matter how he felt he would always stand up, give me a big hug and call me his sister. I grew to love him and his beautiful smile. I didn’t find out he had passed until last Sunday so I wasn’t at the viewing. Wish I could have been there. I will miss him terribly. I pray God’s comfort and peace for each of you. He was a special man.
- Cheryl, Savannah , Ga
I am so sorry for your loss. I am part of the team that goes to The Oaks every Sunday to do a church service for the residents. Vernon was always there. He was my special resident and friend. No matter how he felt he would always stand up, give me a big hug and call me his sister. I grew to love him and his beautiful smile. I didn’t find out he had passed until last Sunday so I wasn’t at the viewing. Wish I could have been there. I will miss him terribly. I pray God’s comfort and peace for each of you. He was a special man.
- Cheryl, Savannah , Ga
A candle has been lit!
Mr. nelson was an old friend of mine, he was a special person to me and what he done for me at one time a fine person.
- david&cyndy blount , savannah , ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
- Memorial Visitation
- 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Fri, June 03, 2022
- Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
-
7200 Hodgson Memorial Drive (map)
Savannah GA 31406 - 912-352-7200
- A Private Service Will Be Held