Billy Nelson Obituary

Billy Ray Nelson

Billy Ray Nelson, born 6-24-1929, Doddridge, Arkansas, drifted peacefully to eternal life surrounded by his mother, brother, sisters, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-laws, daughter-in-law and numerous other loving family members on Saturday 29, 2012.

Mr. Nelson enlisted in the USAF in 1946. Billy, otherwise known as Pappy worked at Avondale Shipyards for 29 years ending his career as a Rigging Superintendent. He was diagnosed with Mesothilioma in April, 2011. He made the most of his seventeen months being sure to spend as much time as he could with his family.

He is survived by: His son, Cary Coldwell, Sr. and his wife, Sylvia, Kim Nelson Boudreaux and her husband, Danny, Robin Nelson, Star Nelson Breaux and her husband, Kurt, Billie Rae Nelson Jones and her husband, Chuck, His mother, Bessie Belle Erwin Nelson of Calvin, Louisiana, Brother Ronald James Nelson and his wife Barbara,Carriere, MS, Sisters, Helen Nelson White, Calvin, Dorothy Nelson Fouche Hamm, Atlanta, Texas, Catherine Nelson Jongbloed, Lake Charles, and her husband Bill, Twelve Grandchildren and twelve Great-Grandchildren and many other loved friends and relatives.

Billy was preceeded in death by: His wife of 50 years and the mother of his children, Gertrude Camille Sanchez Nelson, his father, James Mathis Nelson, and his infant daughter, Jody Marie Nelson.

His children were guided through the last days of his life by Heart of Hospice. Thanks to Ms. Melissa and Ms. Christy. His children would also like to acknowledge their cousin, Samantha Shewmake for her guidance and compassion shown to their dad through her roll as a registered nurse. Dr. Steven J Granier, daddy's primary care physician, WHAT A MAN. You were patient and kind to our father all along knowing that all you really could do for him was listen. You made quite an impression on Billy Nelson.

Also, we would like to thank Mrs. Pamela VanWyck Snodgras, A.K.A Nappy, a dear and loving family friend for allowing us to focus on our father while she met the needs of family and friends who came to our home to pay respect to our beloved father Billy Nelson. Many thanks, also, to all who delivered nourishment for both our physical and our emotional needs.

Services for Mr. Nelson will be at Mothe's Funeral home on Lapalco in Marrero. Times: 5:00 pm for family and 6:00pm til 10:00pm for friends. On Thursday, October 4, 2012, you may visit from 9:00 to 11:00am until a gathering in the chapel. Burial will follow at Westlawn Cementery in Gretna where he will be re-united with his wife and our mother. Now for a few of his words of wisdom, "you may give out, but don't give up." Billy Ray Nelson, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend May he rest in peace, Amen.

Published by The Town Talk on Oct. 3, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
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Dear Nelson Family,
My prayers and condolences are with you at the loss of such a great man. I will never forget his concern & kindess after the passing of my parents, Evelyn & JR Plaisance. His infectious laugh and wit will always be remembered. May the love of God, family, and friends guide you through this difficult time.
Love,
Sheila and family

Sheila Plaisance

October 19, 2012

Dear Nelson family, Mr Billy was a great neighbor to all of us. He all ways had a smile and wave us for as we passed going and coming, He sometimes told stories when he visited

Smouchie & Mary Baudoin

October 4, 2012

Pap -- a man missed by many but forgotten by none... Very sorry for your lost Nelson Clan he was a very kind person with a caring sense. My fondest memory is of waking up to his smiling face one day as i was sleeping in the chair in my hospital room and looking over at this man on my bed. He had been there waiting for me to wake up. Made me feel kinda special!! And of course Friday nights will be a lil different without him. He was a special man and that should be what gets everyone thru the rough spots... the wonderful memories and special relationship he had with his family.

When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight. ~Kahlil Gibran

ps dont take points off for spelling or grammer remember i take crazy meds

gina daigle

October 4, 2012

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I wish I could be there. Your Dad was a special person, he will always be in our hearts. Thank you for sharing him with me growing up. Lots of love to you all.

Lorraine L. Johnson

October 3, 2012

In loving and fond memories of your sweet Daddy. Love you Kim.

Sylvia Aylor

October 3, 2012

Sending my deepest sympathy, and prayers for the strength to hold on. My heart breaks for your loss

Flavia Arrazola

October 3, 2012

Patty LeBeau

October 3, 2012

I want to let the family know how sorry i am for your lose.I know how much he was loved by knowing his children.He was a very lucky man to have the family like yal.I Love you guys.Stay strong.

Patty LeBeau

October 3, 2012

You are in our thoughts and prayers!

Crecia/Stephanie Webb

October 3, 2012

Nelson family, My heart is so heavy for each and everyone of you. Pappy was a special man and was loved by many. I am privileged to have known him! We love and will miss you Pappy, Tylyn, Jaci and Kyle

Tylyn Cotten

October 3, 2012

Christi & Family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you through this time of sorrow. May you find comfort and peace in the arms of God.

Mark & Sheila Navo

October 3, 2012

To the Nelsons. I know how much you all are hurting and please know that I am here for all of you at any time. May you all have peace knowing he is at rest. Love to all of you.

Carol Sanchez

October 3, 2012

I am so sorry about Mr. Billy. He was family to all of us. I will always remember him coming to Olla to hunt with the Cotten men and bringing oysters. We all loved him and his beautiful smile. My dad and I always called him the "other" brother and laughed. He will be truly missed. God bless all of you. Love, Kristie Cotten daughter of Larry.

Kristie Cotten

October 2, 2012

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