Roscoe Nelson, Jr. Obituary
Published by Legacy Remembers on May 27, 2025.
Roscoe Nelson, Jr. age 56, was born to Bertha Nelson and the late Roscoe Nelson in Bridgeport, CT on April 7, 1969 and was called home to be with the Lord on April 26th, 2025, leaving a legacy of love and kindness. He attended Capital Community College where he received his associate's degree in social services. He graduated from Bullard Havens Technical High School, Blessed Sacrament, and St. Cyril's and Methodius. At Bullard Havens he successfully completed both plumbing and cosmetology and became a master barber. He was employed by the Veteran's Administration Hospital for twenty years and was an Environmental Supervisor and served as a Recovery Counselor.
Roscoe enlisted in the United States Army in 1987 after serving faithfully in Germany and was honorably discharged in 1990. Roscoe loved being a veteran and celebrated Memorial Day and Veteran's Day as if it was his birthday, collecting free coffees and discounts.
As a entrepreneur he worked in many local barbershops, but as a highly respected master barber he owned and operated Chocolate City located on Connecticut Avenue in Bridgeport, CT. Roscoe dedicated many years to perfecting the art of barbering and was known for his exceptional talent and meticulous craftmanship; he transformed a simple hair cut into an art form of his own. He built lasting relationships with his clients who became friends and family but also mentored young barbers passing on the skills and passion for the trade. His barber chair was a place of connection, storytelling and community, a true reflection of his generous spirit and love for all people.
Roscoe loved family, music, cars, clothes, watches, hats & caps, and football! He especially loved a good barbecue as the master grill chef. Roscoe was also a Mason and was proud of this accomplishment, he wore his ring with pride.
Roscoe's only child and his grandchildren were the light of his life and brought immense joy to him. He loved being a father and being called "Pop-pop". He leaves behind his daughter Alexandria Murraine (Elcin), granddaughter BrendaLynn, and grandson Ethan.
Roscoe was married twice, first to Christine Best, later to Martha Nelson. Although both marriages ended in divorce, he valued the experiences and relationships during those times. He maintained a friendship that he valued with both.
Roscoe was a longtime member of Rainbow Temple Church in Bridgeport, CT and had given his life to God as a young boy and again as a man.
Roscoe moved to Centerpoint, Alabama in 2019 to advance his career within the VA hospital system in Birmingham, Alabama. He lived in Centerpoint with his fur baby Roxie, until his death.
He is predeceased by his father, Roscoe Nelson Sr., his sister Brenda Young, and his niece Robyn Young Minor. He leaves to mourn his mother, Mrs. Bertha Nelson, his older brother Robert E. Nelson, his sister Dr. Marian Evans (Scott). And a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and lifelong friends.
The memorial service is being held, Wednesday, May 28th at Rainbow Temple Church, 175 Success Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06610 from 5-7 pm. The repast will be from 7-9 pm at Vazzano's Four Seasons, 337 Kenyon Street, Stratford, CT