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Gary Nelson Obituary
Clinton
Gary Allen Nelson passed away Saturday February 1, 2014 at his home. Visitation is 5pm-8pm Thursday February 7, 2014 at Lakewood Funeral Home and again 10am Friday at First United Methodist Church in Clinton. Funeral services are 11am Friday, February 8, 2014 at the First United Methodist Church with a private family graveside to follow in Lakewood Memorial Park.
He is survived by his children, Christopher Nelson of Clinton, Angela Ogle (Richard) of Clarksville, TN, Kevin Nelson (Jennifer) of Madison, Miranda Smith (Kirk) of Brookhaven, and Paige Goolsby (John) of Clinton. In addition, his 11 beautiful grandchildren that he adored: Cody Cefalu, Cole Ogle, Cade Ogle, Canon Ogle, Brayden Nelson, Reid Nelson, Saylor Smith, Haddon Smith, Grace Goolsby, Ella Goolsby, and Maggie Goolsby. He is also survived by his mother, Elizabeth Nelson; father Frank Sutton and 2 brothers Jim and Bob Nelson. He was preceded in death by his true love of 47 years, Becky Nelson and his step-father Col. O.C. Nelson.
Gary was born in Miami, FL on April 4, 1945. Spending his senior year in high school in Gettysburg, PA gave him a strong appreciation for the Civil War and as a result, he read every Civil War book he could get his hands on. A baseball scholarship to Mississippi State University brought Daddy to Mississippi and after 3 years, he was accepted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center and in 1966, he met and married his soul mate, Rebecca "Becky" Jordan. After graduating in 1970, he completed his residency in Family Medicine at the University of South Alabama. Gary began is medical practice in Clinton, MS on Halloween 1974 to care for his beloved community. This obituary could go on about how patients would flock to his doors not just for his excellent diagnostic skills but for his witty bed-side manner. Generations of family members would pass through the threshold of his office to be treated by the kind and loving Dr. Nelson.
We, as his children and grandchildren want people to know him as we do, as Daddy or Doc, the Diet Coke loving, Little Debbie Snack Cake hiding, John Denver listening, Bill O'Reilly watching, firework fanatic, never let you hit bottom shoulder to cry on. Our greatest role model and gentleman will be missed for the rest of our lives. Our mama and daddy inspired us with their love and their love of travel and adventure. They played tennis, snow skied, scuba dived and kicked up the sand on numerous beaches most of the time with us in tow and their God-given family, Buddy and Brenda Spencer. Daddy was loving, encouraging, supportive, and oh so proud of his children and grandchildren. After the death of our mama in August, he found it increasingly difficult to overcome grief, but found comfort in the success of what he called "their" greatest achievement: his children and grandchildren. Our daddy had "a heart of gold," and his greatest joy in life was seeing his family happy. He was an avid reader; we never saw him without a book, which gave us such an appreciation for education and history. His only goal in life was to bring a smile to our faces. Though a quiet and reserved man, his smile, love, and laughter could fill up the room with sunshine everywhere he went. All we can say is Gary Nelson was a beautiful man in every sense of the word: he lived a life to be proud of and we, as his children were so proud to call him our daddy. His hugs were huge and enveloping and he always knew the answer to our problems; we'll miss those healing hands.
We find peace in knowing our parents are walking hand in hand towards their majestic sunrise peaking up over their beloved Rocky Mountains. We love and miss you terribly daddy; you were the best kind of soul, but yours and mama's blood runs through our veins and the legacy you two created will continue. We cannot wait to see you again, but until then, we'll be here carrying on and talking to you through our prayers.
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Memories and Condolences
for Gary Nelson
Donna Sammon
November 28, 2014
I just found out today (11/28/2014)of your father's passing. We were students at GHS at the same time, in the same graduating class. We were very good friends and he was my boyfriend's best friend. We had a lot in common, both being Air Force brats. I am so sorry for your loss. I have lost both of my parents and I know the hole it leaves in your heart. May God bless each of you with his special love and comfort. May his memory and that of your mother be as sweet as mine are of my parents. Very sincerely, Donna L (Stone) Sammon.
Barbara Owen
February 12, 2014
This saddens me so much. Dr. Nelson was my doctor for many years,while we lived in Jackson. I moved to Florence and found a new doctor so I woudnt have to drive as far. Once when my boys were very young and one was sick, I took him to doctor Nelson and was giving a prescription for an anitbiotic.On the way in the house the 'glass' bottle of med was dropped and it broke. I called Dr. Nelson upset because i needed another prescription and wasnt sure if he would let me have another one. Also, though I didnt tell him, I didnt have the money to buy more was going to have to borrow the money. He was closed for the day and gone but told me to meet him back at his office and once there he gave me enough samples to equals the prescription. At that moment he was my hero and I have just always loved him for doing that for me. He was a great doctor, one I thought very highly of. I am soo very sad to hear about his passing.
February 11, 2014
Our hearts are heavy for you in the loss of our "Dr. Nelson". He was our family physician since early summer of 1976, and we have missed him in his retirement. Our prayers are with you all. Sincerely, Mike and Paula, Scott, Brian, Brad and Jeffrey Sartor
February 9, 2014
With Sympathy,
Paige & Bobby Long
February 7, 2014
Prayers and blessings to the family. HE was a great family Doctor to our family for many years. Gob BLess you all. R. Stewart and Family. Jackson Ms.
Merri Wright
February 7, 2014
Before we moved to Texas years ago Dr Nelson was our primary care physician. We didn't mind having to wait to see him because he was such a delightful man and very smart. Regardless of what our reason was for seeing him, he always had great knowledge on how to treat us. We are sending prayers to the family as they try to cope with their losses of Family gone to soon. Sincerely, Ricky and Merri Wright
February 6, 2014
To all the Nelson Children:
It is with a very saddened heart that we have heard of your father and mother's passing. You know, we all were a small family being from Clinton. Whenever one hurts, we all hurt. My family hurts for all of you. Please know that your parents were a wonderful"fixture"in Clinton!! And God bless all of you!! Steve and Phyllis Williams, David, Jennifer, Jimbo and Rebecca.
Kelly Lammons
February 6, 2014
Doctor Nelson was the doctor for my family for about twenty five years until he retired. He was a wonderful, highly intelligent, very sweet man. It was always a joy to see him, Mrs. Rilla, Ms. Judy, and Toby. May God bless you all with peace and comfort in the knowing that he has a brand new heavenly body and is with your mother. I know you will miss him dearly.
Mary Sanders
February 6, 2014
I am thankful for having him as our family Dr for many years. May God comfort your family at this time.
Michael Allen
February 6, 2014
Hated when he retired and left his practice. We went to him from 1974 or 75 until about a year before he retired. He was a wonderful doctor and friend and as you said fantastic diagnostic doctor. Now he can fish with my Dad and all the healing is taken care of. May God give you all Mercy, Peace & Strength during this phase of life's journey. God bless you all and thank you for your Dad's service. Peace "within" always;
michael
Romanda Redfield
February 6, 2014
My deepest thoughts and prayers go out to the Nelson family. May God keep you all during these difficult times.
Everlyn Lyles
February 6, 2014
Dr. Nelson was my family doctor for (3-generations). He will be missed by all who knew him. A great doctor with bed-side manners to be remembered.
February 6, 2014
Your father was a dear friend and our doctor for years. We lived across the street on Fox Hill Dr and watched as Becky and Dr. Nelson had children. What a great friend he was and his staff at his office Rilla being also our friend. Sennett and Catherine Lee
Brenda Mangold
February 6, 2014
Dr. Nelson was my Dr. for 30+ years. I was very upset when he retired. He was a good man. Bless you all.
February 6, 2014
I met Dr. Nelson when I was 15 years old. I was in a singing group with his daughter Miranda. I thought very highly of Miranda and her entire family. I send my sincerest sympathy. Love and prayers...Nina Warren Grubbs, Magee Ms.
Jim and Maris Stanard
February 6, 2014
To the Nelson family
We would like to extend our deepest sympathy for a wonderful doctor and friend who treated our family since 1976 until he retired.
He was patient, caring and kind and never without a smile. He will be missed and remembered.
February 6, 2014
We are never prepared for a death of a loved one it is the hardest things we can go though so please find comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be no more for this has been promised to us. With my deepest condolences for your loss.
Sue Stephens
February 6, 2014
I started seeing Dr. Nelson, when he first came to Clinton. He was a loving and kind man and the best doctor you have. I am heartbroken over his passing and my heart goes out to his children and grandchildren. My prayers are with his family.
February 6, 2014
I would love to give my prayes in the lost of your loved one. He had a great heart and enjoyed being able to care for him while in cmmc. My prayes are with all of you. With deepest sympathy from the staff on 3southeast
Jean Prather
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was a wonderful caretaker for Eddie and me. He was so kind when Eddie became ill. He gave me advice on things to do to prepare for Eddie's situation. I have fond memories of our conversations when I went for appointments. May God bless your family.
Jean Prather
Charlotte Simmons
February 5, 2014
We loved Your Mama and Daddy. They welcomed Chris into their home and on many family beach vacations. Dr. Nelson was a fine doctor and treated us all at one time or another. He will be missed.
February 5, 2014
I met Dr nelson in 1975 ,he treated my son for asthma. He then became my doctor . He was the best, i couldn't see my family going to anyone else. I told him he was a part of my family.we truly loved him. Althea and Willie shoulders
Renee Roumain
February 5, 2014
Reading the obituary of my beloved doctor Nelson, it is with great grief and sorrow that I will always miss him. It is true what his family has written about him, how his bed- side manners were hilarious and his sharp aptitude to be able to look at you and tell you exactly what is ailing you. Each time I visited his office I left with a sense that he really cared about me and my health. I guess that is why I stayed with him over the years from 1995-2011, because I felt safe in his care. Thank You Dr. Nelson for all of those years that you kept we well.
Renee Roumain
Port Washington & Clinton, MS
Allyn & Resie Taylor
February 5, 2014
Prayers of comfort are going up for the Nelson family. Dr. Nelson was a remarkable man. Not only was he a wonderful physician to my family for more than 20years , but I considered him a dear friend. He will be greatly missed!
Mike and Rhonda Parker
February 5, 2014
What a beautiful tribute to a loving family man, caring physician, and great diagnostician. We are so saddened to hear of the passing of our Dr. Nelson, he will surely be missed. Dr. Nelson was our doctor for over 26 years and he and Miss Rilla, Miss Judy, and Miss Peggy took such good care of our family. Dr. Nelson was the only doctor our children knew for many years. May he rest in peace and may God comfort his family.
Judy and Jimmy Carver
February 5, 2014
Praying that God will help you through this time of loss. He will be truly missed, he was our doctor and friend and we loved him!
Kay Russell
February 5, 2014
We as a family and as a community will miss Dr. Nelson but we all know that he is with his beloved wife Becky. Dr. Nelson was a loving doctor with a bed-side manner that has been missed by most doctors. Dr. Nelson truly loved his patients and would find out what your problems were. My mother, my husband (who would not go to doctors) children and grandchildren (when they were in Clinton as they lived out of state) were all his patients. You are blessed to have a doctor like Dr. Gary Nelson as they are few in this world. You can honestly say he was a doctor with love and compassion for each of his patients. We will miss him and the dedication he gave to his community. Our thoughts and prayers are to his children and grandchildren. You each know that he and Becky will always be watching over all of you.
The Russell's
LARRY & CAROL LITTLE
February 5, 2014
My family and I are saddened to hear of the PASSING OF DR. NELSON.HE WAS OUR DR.UNTIL WE MOVED AWAY FROM CLINTON.HE WAS THE ONE TO TELL ME THAT I WAS EXPECTING OUR THIRD CHILD.OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH ALL OF YOU.GOD BLESS.
Judy Jordan Simpson
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was a very special man. He was our family physician from the time I was a little girl. Although I moved from Clinton when I was 20 he continued to be the trusted care provider for my parents who adored him. They say, and I agree, there will never be another like him. He was a precious man. My heart is heavy but I will see him again one day.
Margaret Bell
February 5, 2014
Dear Nelson family,
You have my deepest sympathy on the passing of your dad. There are many tales I could tell you about my visits to see Dr. Nelson. I can remember a particular time when I came to see him, that I gave myself a self diagnosis! LOL you should have seen the look on his face when he looked at me and said, "so where did you get that idea"? Needless to say my diagnosis was all wrong! I guess that is why he was the doctor and me the patient. On the serious side your dad was a sweet and loving person that treated my mom up until she died. He was always there when we needed him. My family and I had been his patients up until he retired. He will be missed. Thank you family for allowing us to share him with you.
Bob and Ann Boone
February 5, 2014
We are heartbroken for your family. We were patients for over 21 years and felt Doc, Rilla, Judy and Toby were family. We were blessed to be patients of Doc and his dedicated crew. He always had stories about the family to share. He never rushed, always listened, carefully explained, and was such a talented diagnostician! He was the epitome of a "family doctor."
Bob and Ann Boone
Cottontown, TN
Katie & Bobby Tonore
February 5, 2014
So sorry for your loss. He was such a loving soul and will be terribly missed.
February 5, 2014
Dear Nelson Family,
Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Your Father was our Physician and friend. He was with us during some of the darkest times in our lives and will forever be remembered. Mary Virginia Kitchens and Family
Donald Butts
February 5, 2014
So sorry to hear about my friend and colleague of many years. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Lois Bullock
February 5, 2014
A fine tribute for a fine man! Dr. Nelson was my family's physician for over 30 years. I still haven't found anyone close to replacing him and don't think I ever will. My deepest sympathy to his children and grandchildren.
February 5, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Know my prayers are with your family.
GraceWest
Mary Wanker
February 5, 2014
I am so sorry to hear about Dr. Nelson, he took care of me when I first moved to Clinton in 1983. He also cared for my grandparents who have since passed on as well, I will miss him greatly and it is still a shock to me. May you rest in peace and prayers go out to the family in this time of need.
Jim Kemp
February 5, 2014
He was not only my doctor he was a friend with a great sense of humor. The world has lost a very caring man and Father and he wil be truly missed.
Melody (Walker) Orrantia
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was my late Mother's doctor for many years. If Dr. Nelson said it was so, then it was so!! His care and compassion was so appreciated by her and our whole family. I'm sad to hear of his passing but want his family to know that he had such a positive impact on our family and countless others. I know Mother is greeting him in Heaven!
Tom and Dot McClenic
February 5, 2014
WE are so saddened of the passing of our Dr. and Friend for 29 years until he retired.
although we missed him we knew he deserved the time to be and do what he wanted..He will truly be missed and I loved him so.
Polly Allen
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was our doctor for 25yrs. Until we moved. I was just quoting some of his advice last week. A dear friend. Blessings to all of you.
Anne Sherman
February 5, 2014
I am very sorry to hear of Dr. Nelson's passing. He was my family's doctor (4 Generations.) I started seeing Dr. Nelson in 1974 until 2000. Was a very special man.
Sandra Williams
February 5, 2014
Rest in Peace Dr. Nelson.
Your devoted patients, The Williams family, James Sr., Sandra and James,Jr.
Amanda Harlow Felder
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was so much more than a doctor... He was a FRIEND. He will be greatly missed by so many, and remembered for the greatness he was on this earth. Prayers to the Nelson children and grandchildren and much love to you all.
Tommy and Charlene Manning
February 5, 2014
We are very saddened by Dr. Nelson's sudden death. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
We thought the world of your parents.
Mary Beth & John Hanbery
February 5, 2014
Gary Nelson meant so much to me and my family from the time we moved to Clinton in 1976. He was not only a wonderful doctor, but also a caring friend. The obituary is the most beautiful I've ever read and sums him up perfectly. So blessed to have known him. Our prayers are with Dr. Nelson's family and all those who called him their friend.
Jan McMillan-Barnes
February 5, 2014
What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful man! As my doctor for decades, I greatly admired Dr. Nelson on so many levels!
Cynthia Brantley
February 5, 2014
I am so shocked to hear of Dr. Nelson's passing! He was my family doctor till I moved away. He was also the doctor for my parents. He was a good doctor and a funny man. Your tribute to your dad was beautiful. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Sharon McWilliams
February 5, 2014
Me and my family went to Dr. Nelson for years. In my opinion he could walk on water and there was nothing he couldn't diagnose. He was a wonderful doctor and a even better man. I'm so sorry for your terrible loss.
Kathy Cotten
February 5, 2014
Feelings are hard to put on paper now. Your dad was my physician for 20+ years, and for me, could do no wrong. His wit reminded me of my dad. Being close to him in age, we always compared ourselves to a rooster missing a few feathers, none the less still able to crow! He spoke often of you, his wonderful family. There are two of the brightest stars together in heaven now! Those stars will always guide you. Praying God will show each of you His love through caring friends and comforting memories.
Cindy Ashford
February 5, 2014
Even with the most unimagineable grief, just know the angels are rejoicing and that you have your own special angels watching over you, cherish your memories.
Hope Smith
February 5, 2014
Dr. Gary Nelson was a very special man. He told me I was expecting my 1st child. I was so happy. A wonderful Dr. who is in glory with Jesus. Prayers for his family.
February 5, 2014
Beautiful.
Leah S
Pat and Betty Nation
February 5, 2014
Our prayers are with all of you. Your parents were special to many of us may God give you peace and strength.
Kathryn Stokes
February 5, 2014
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I adored you dad as my doctor; he was always willing to listen and loved a good joke. I have missed his stable presence in my life as a great doctor and an even better person.
Jennifer Dougherty
February 5, 2014
We were so sad to hear Dr Nelson had passed away. He was mine and my husbands doctor for many years. He was very compassionate when my mother passed away(he was also her doctor), and a fine doctor and a very genuine person. I saw him recently at the post office. This obituary was a beautiful tribute to your father. He would be so proud.
Debra Hardwick
February 5, 2014
What a beautiful tribute to a wonderful man and doctor! He was the best!!!
Neal & Jennifer Dougherty
February 5, 2014
I suppose my wife and I were patients of Dr. Nelson for about 15 years before he retired. He always exhibited his wonderful bedside manner and sense of humor. We will always have fond memories of Dr. Nelson and we know you do as well. Our deepest sympathies go out to you all and our most heartfelt prayers as well. God Bless and Comfort you all.
Charlotte Bledsoe
February 5, 2014
what a wonderful tribute to a great man! Our family began seeing Dr. Nelson in Nov., 1974...We loved him and miss him terribly!
Tracy Graham
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was my doctor when I grew up in Clinton. Always had a wonderful smile and took time and listened to you. You could tell he truly loved what he was doing. God bless you all.
Charles and Marie Mills
Marie Mills
February 5, 2014
Dr. Nelson was our primary care physician for many, many years. He took all the time needed with you when you went in ill and was very caring. I had a very thick file and went in one time and someone new was there and I made the comment that we always said "we helped put Dr. Nelson's children through school." The young lady said "that would be me". She was helping her dad in the office. He will be missed not only by his loving family but by his former patients also. We send sincere sympathy to the family in the lost of Dr. Nelson.
Wayne and Kim Williams
February 5, 2014
Prayers for comfort. Thinking of you and your family.
Tom Gladney
February 5, 2014
Kevin
I was sorry to see you had lost your dad this past weekend. Please know that I am thinking about you and your family during this difficult time.
Coach Tom Gladney
Samantha Millen Stinson
February 5, 2014
Many wonderful memories I cherish of my childhood involve your father, my father, & great tennis matches. May YOUR memories give comfort and solace at this time and please know he will never be forgotten. God bless and keep you.
Jami McCollough Scallion
February 4, 2014
I am in tears reading this as my heart breaks for all of you. Y'all have always been such a loving and close family and i know this must be so difficult for you all. Prayers.
Tiffany Phillips
February 4, 2014
R.I.P. Dr. Nelson, you will be greatly missed by everyone's whose lives you touched!
larry trest
February 4, 2014
I was Dr. Nelsons first patient when he came to Clinton and stayed that way till his retirement. It is not often your Dr. being one of your best friends.We always argued about something,in fun of course. You will be missed my good friend.
Kenny Everett
February 4, 2014
Dr. Nelson was my doctor for over thirty-five years. He had taken care of three generations of my family. When my brother called and told me about Dr. Nelson, I felt like I had lost a family member. Doc could look at me when I walked into his office and knew what was wrong. He knew me better than anyone. Many times when I was in his office he and I would talk about baseball, or snow skiing and he always was talking about his children and grandchildren. Thank you to his family for sharing him with us.
Charlotte Massey
February 4, 2014
Cousin Gary was always our hero. Growing up with him at Granny's house, we always looked up at him and admired him and were so proud of his accomplishments and his wonderful marriage to Becky and the family they created. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Diane Middleton
February 4, 2014
Dr Nelson was my one and only doctor for 33 years. He took care of both my children. I will never forget when he told me he was retiring. I cried. I am so very sorry to hear of his passing. Prayers for all his family.
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