Gary Eugene Nelson was born at the Allen Memorial Hospital in Mobile, Alabama, on August 6, 1942, the first-born of Eugene and Stella Nelson. He grew up in Prichard, Alabama and was a graduate of the Vigor High School class of 1960. Gary attended Hinds Junior College, now Hinds Community College, in Jackson, Mississippi. He began his career as manager of the Father and Son shoe store in Prichard and eventually became a regional manager in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida for the parent company, Endicott-Johnson Corporation.
Gary is survived by his daughter Jill Nicole Nelson-Beard, (Brad), grandson Brooklyn, 13, and granddaughters Jaclyn, 11, and Goldie, 7, his sisters Gloria Elaine Williams (Dan) and Sandra Kay Heathcoe (Randy, deceased), nieces Erin Reimer (Joel), Leah Washington, Mendy Johnson (Michael) and Candace Sutherland (David), and numerous cousins in Alabama and Mississippi.
Gary had an exciting life full of adventures. He traveled extensively, and some highlights include New York, California, Las Vegas, Alaska, Hawaii, and Disney World. He topped it off with a grand tour of Europe, with the French Rivera being his favorite destination. He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and taking them to the beach every year. Gary was a loyal Alabama football fan and loved watching them play. He sure did love iced tea and tomato sandwiches!
Gary's passing is a great loss to his family and friends. He will always be remembered as a loving family member and a respected friend. His smile was enduring and will remain a cherished memory. Gary's legacy is a testament to a life well-lived, and his impact will be felt forever.
AUGUST 6, 1942 – SEPTEMBER 15, 2023
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Radney Funeral Home-Mobile. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 a.m. in the Oakleigh Chapel of the funeral home. Interment will follow in Mobile Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
