Dr. Cecil Morris Nelson

Dr. Cecil Morris Nelson, 102, passed away peacefully on Aug. 11, 2025, at Charter Senior Living of Hermitage, Tennessee.

He was born on Nov. 12, 1922 in Rock Island, IL. He attended Augustana College in Rock Island (1940-43), was awarded B.S. (1944) and M.S. (1948) degrees from the University of Chicago, and Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (1952) from the University of Tennessee. He was a research scientist (1946-48) at Argonne National Laboratory, Chicago, IL, and at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (1944-46, 1948-60). During World War 2 at Oak Ridge, TN, he was a scientist for the U.S. Army on the top secret Manhattan Project developing the first atomic bomb. There, he met Roberta Marion Carmichael, who was on the administrative staff supporting the project director's office. Cecil and Roberta were married on Aug. 28, 1946, and remained devoted life partners until her passing in 2020. 

From 1960-1987, Dr. Nelson was a professor of physics at Emory & Henry College (now university), Emory, VA. He was instrumental in bringing the first computer to E&H and served as chairman of the science department for part of his tenure, a highly respected teacher and mentor. 

An Eagle Scout and later an Explorer Scout Master, Dr. Nelson was awarded the Silver Beaver, Scout America Counsel's highest honor. He was active in Rotary Club and Abingdon United Methodist Church, Abingdon, VA. The Nelsons were avid campers and hikers, exploring North America on long summer breaks with their children Cindy and Bob. Later, they treated their grandchildren to annual vacations at state parks and beaches. They were active members of their retirement community, Shannondale of Knoxville, TN, and traveled extensively, visiting all inhabited continents.

Dr. Nelson approached life with the problem-solving curiosity of a scientific mind. His electic interests ranging from genealogy to solar power expanded throughout his lifetime. In his kind and gentlemanly way, he sought to improve whatever circumstances he encountered. 

Dr. Nelson cultivated close and supportive relationships with his children, grandchildren, and their families. They returned his care and affection, especially in gathering to celebrate his birthdays, always appreciative of his guiding influence in their lives. He remained in vigorous health until the last year of a long, purpose-filled life. Dr. Nelson lived life with intention and integrity, laying a sure foundation for his descendants to build upon.

 He was preceded in death by his wife of 73 years, Roberta Carmichael Nelson. He is survived by two children: daughter Cynthia Louise Nelson of Maryville, TN, and son Robert M. Nelson (Betsy Lilly) of Hermitage, TN; five grandchildren: David Rupp (Nicole), Kristin Rupp Colquitt, Jonathon Rupp (Helga), Benjamin Nelson (Magdalena), Robert L. Nelson (Leslie); great-grandchildren Hafsteinn Karlsson, Astmar Rupp (Raven), Joshua Rupp, Kristofer Rupp, Brenton Colquitt, Amaya Colquitt, Willem Nelson, Kaiser Nelson, James Nelson, Elijah Nelson, Samuel Nelson; and great-great-grandchildren Jamari Colquitt and Edith Rupp.

 Dr. Nelson will be buried beside his wife in the Taylor family plot at Bethesda Cemetery, Hamblen Co. TN. Rev. Sam Shaus, pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Morristown, TN, will officiate a family graveside service on Sept. 6, 2025. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to First Presbyterian Church, Morristown, TN, or a charity of choice.

 Nashville Cremation Center and Allen Funeral Home are serving the family. 

The family thanks the staff of Charter Senior Living of Hermitage, TN, and Aveanna Healthcare for their outstanding and sincere care of Dr. Nelson.