Clyde Eugene Nelson

Clyde Eugene "Geno" Nelson, lovingly known as "Pop", passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 86. He was born on April 21, 1938, and lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, and deep love for his family.

Geno was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and loved serving his country. Near the end of his career, he had the rare honor of working with the Presidential Squadron, the team responsible for supporting Air Force One. He was a man deeply rooted in faith who would do anything for anyone, and he was truly cherished by all who knew him. Known for his steady presence, kind heart, and servant spirit, he lived with strength, integrity, and compassion.

He loved being outdoors and working with his hands, always happiest when building, fixing, or helping someone in need. His commitment to service extended beyond the military and into his community. Geno served the Mechanicsville Volunteer Rescue Squad in Mechanicsville, Maryland, first as vice president and later as president, dedicating countless hours to helping others and answering the call whenever he was needed.

Geno also had an artist's heart. He could play almost any instrument, but he especially loved the harmonica, piano, and guitar. Music was a gift he shared easily, and it brought joy to those around him. He also loved painting, expressing his creativity through color and quiet moments of reflection.

Geno was a loving and devoted husband. He married his first wife, Virginia "Ginny" Nelson, in 1963, and he adored her deeply. Their marriage was filled with love and devotion, and he was devastated by her passing in 2005. In 2010, he found love again and married Shelly Nelson, who helped him heal and brought so much joy and companionship back into his life. He absolutely adored Shelly, and the life they built together was a true blessing. Shelly survives him.

He is also survived by his children: Jerry Nelson, Carol Craig, Tiffanie Gibbs. He was a proud grandfather to Amber and Matt Volk, Diana and Karim Elleissy, Jacquelyn Nelson and Steven Marlatt, Rachel Nelson, Vanessa Nelson, Jerry Nelson Jr., and Matthew Craig.

He was a cherished great-grandfather to Rylee Glover, Liam Volk, Carter Volk, Nolan Volk, Ellie Volk, Fouad Elleissy, Tarek Elleissy, Daliah Marlatt, Joel Nelson, and Lila Nelson, as well as a precious great-grandchild expected later this year. He also had adopted great-grandchildren Waylon Stanburry, Payten Alvarez, Paul Alvarez, and Brooklyn Jones, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He is also survived by his sister, Agnus Cook, and his brother, Richard Erwin. He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Dryman.

Above all, Geno loved his family. He was a steady and caring father, a devoted husband, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather who found his greatest joy in the people who called him Pop. His legacy of faith, service, generosity, and love will live on through all who were blessed to know him.

There will be a funeral service on Monday February 23, 2026 at 2:00PM, at Gethsemane Baptist Church in Hendersonville, NC. A time of visitation will be from 1:00PM till 2:00PM at the church. The committal service at the cemetery will follow the funeral at Bob's Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Zirconia, NC.