Nelson Elliot Gassman

Nelson Elliot Gassman, 73, of Panama City, Florida, went home to be with the Lord on August 23, 2025, after a lengthy battle with AML. He was, and will remain, a deeply loved husband, father, and grandfather whose presence brought light and encouragement to everyone around him.

Born August 20, 1952, in Littlerock, Arkansas, Nelson was the fifth of eight children born to George Wilburn ("Buddy") and Geraldine ("Gerri") Farrar Gassman. Raised in Dallas, Texas, he attended North Dallas High School, where he enjoyed being part of the swim team. After graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in early 1971 and served aboard the USS Rigel. Following his military service, he returned to Dallas, attended Christ for the Nations Bible College, and became an ordained minister. Nelson worked with Metropolitan Life early in his career and later found success in sales with Mercedes-Benz. Though he did not ultimately pursue church ministry as a vocation, he carried his love for God into every season of life, meeting challenges and victories alike with faith and grace.

Nelson lived with undiagnosed dyslexia until nearly age 40, yet he refused to let it define or limit him. He developed remarkable observational skills to compensate and eventually became an avid reader. Known for his kind manner and infectious smile, Nelson truly never met a stranger. He was a gifted storyteller who uplifted others with humor, compassion, and an unwavering belief in their potential. Patient, supportive, and encouraging, he often reminded those around him that "your past will never equal your future," believing wholeheartedly that no one should be judged by their hardest days and that brighter ones always lay ahead. He had a rare ability to help others see hope, possibility, and the "way up" even when they could not see it themselves.

Nelson met the love of his life, De, on March 9, 1991, at the rifle range in Monroe, Louisiana. He proposed just two days later, and she made him wait a whole day before saying "yes." That seemingly impulsive beginning blossomed into nearly 35 years of partnership built on mutual respect, devotion, and a beautiful balance of each other's strengths. Nelson affectionately called her "Miss De" and never hesitated to tell others she was "the love of my life." He was her steadfast encourager, and their bond was a source of joy to all who knew them.

To his children, Nelson is remembered as someone who simply wanted to be near the people he loved. Their presence alone brought him joy—especially the presence of his grandchildren. Game nights with his grands often turned into marathons. When asked his favorite name to be called, he answered without hesitation: "Grandpa." Inspired by an early interaction with them, Nelson wrote a children's book that became a great source of pride. He used it to encourage others to write, believing everyone carries a story within them that deserves to be told.

Nelson was a dreamer, a world-class encourager, and a man with a servant's heart. He was funny, endlessly kind, and profoundly generous. He loved God, his family, and his country. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he created continue to bring warmth and smiles to those who loved him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, De (Doris Boston-Baldwin-Coons) Gassman; his children, Joshua Gassman (Alice) and Charity Parenzin (Patrick); and his grandchildren, Maya, Micah, Elias, and Judah. He is also survived by his stepdaughters, Brandy Coons-Nell (Nico) and Courtney Coons-Poole (Alan); step-grandchildren, Nora and Ethan; and his siblings, Mickey Davis, Nancy Reader, Hal Gassman, Michelle Dyson (Gary), and Eric Gassman, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, George and Anthony; and his oldest son, Micah Aaron.

Nelson will be laid to rest at Barrancas National Cemetery in Pensacola, Florida, on March 9, 2026.