Nelson Oliver Cleavenger

Cumberland, MD - Nelson Oliver Cleavenger, 78, of Cumberland, formerly of Annapolis, passed away Sept. 30, 2025, at home. Born July 9, 1947, in Annapolis, he was the son of the late Lucian Lanie Cleavenger and Audrey Roberta (Grimes) Cleavenger. The last surviving member of his family, he was also preceded in death by his brother, Ashby Cleavenger. Nelson is survived by many dear friends. Raised in Eastport, he was a graduate of Annapolis High School. He attended Anne Arundel and Allegany community colleges. He retired in 1999 after a lengthy career with the Comptroller of Maryland. Gregarious, smart and articulate, Nelson was knowledgeable in most fields, always keeping abreast of current events. He possessed a keen memory that included encyclopedic recall of history and politics. He thrived on good food and drink, the performing arts, especially music, all forms of visual arts and, above all, the company of friends. An avid reader, he often recommended and shared books and articles from newspapers and magazines. He was an excellent cook and an alcoholic beverage aficionado. Nelson was practical and frugal, but generous. He had a profound sense of humor. Nelson owned and rode motorcycles as a young man, completing a cross-country trip on two wheels in his 20s. He later toured the U.S. with a buddy in a vintage automobile, camping along the way. He especially enjoyed traveling to Quebec City, Canada, and did so on numerous occasions. A man of many talents, he was interested in cameras and was a superb photographer. Over the years he gardened, completed home improvement projects and built furniture. Nelson was cremated and Adams Family Funeral Home, P.A., 404 Decatur Street, Cumberland, MD, (www.AdamsFamilyFuneralHome.com) is handling arrangements. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to Metropolitan AME Church, 309 Frederick St., Cumberland, MD 21502, or Allegany County Animal Shelter, 716 Furnace St., Cumberland.