Francis J. Nelson Jr.

Nelson - Francis John Nelson, Jr., age 85, of Yulee, Florida, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Francis proudly served in the United States Army as a young man and worked most of his life at Jefferson Smurfit. He enjoyed fishing, traveling, and pool parties with his family and friends, along with his two beloved dogs, Gracie and Bella. Francis was always happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.

Francis was a man of faith who loved his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and his church family. His faith guided his life and brought him great comfort and strength.

Francis is survived by the love of his life, his wife of 60 years, Rhoda I. Nelson; children, Richard and Darcy Nelson, Mellissa Gonzales, Cindy and John Collins, John and Paige Shirley; grandchildren, Trae and Bri Jelinek, Trevor Jelinek, Teague Jelinek, Tony Gonzales, Shelby and Justin Valesquez, Sierra Nelson, Ricky Nelson, Shyanne Nelson, John Martin Shirley, Kristi and Andy Dillhyon, Drew Feagle; great grandchildren, Sawyer Penn Jelinek, Blake Dillhyon, Dane Dillhyon; and many nephews and nieces.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, Francis John Nelson, Amelia Jean Schreier; siblings, Edith Tampier, Al Olson, Jenny Griffis, Barbara Nelson, Shirley Sumney, Junior Livesay, George Livesay; and his son, Gary Gene Nelson.

The tribute above was prepared by Francis' loving family.

A Celebration of Francis's Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. with Mr. George Lee and Mr. Jon Knochenmus officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family's guest book.