Joseph Ezekiel Nelson Jr.

Joseph "Joe" Ezekiel Nelson, Jr. of Sophia, NC, 83, entered his eternal rest on February 5, 2026. He was born on May 24, 1942, in Dade County, Florida, to Mr. Joseph E. and Mrs. Evelyn Nelson, Sr. Joe lived a life marked by faith, craftsmanship, and a deep devotion to his family and community.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife Joyce White Nelson, and his son Jonathan Nelson. He is survived by his son, Joseph F. Nelson (Torri); his daughter in law, Jackie Nelson, widow of his late son Jonathan; his granddaughters Victoria Coley and Kristal Roach (Travis); his grandsons Jonah Scruggs, Jacob Scruggs (Brianna), and Dylan Nelson; and five great grandchildren-Skylar Roach, Nate Davis, Serenity Roach, Jason Scruggs, and Hayleigh Scruggs-each of whom brought him immense joy.

Joe is also survived by his brothers James "Jim" Nelson (Beverly) of Virginia and Charles Nelson (Anne) of Florida. He cherished his extended family and remained close to his many nieces and nephews, all of whom were important to him and part of the Nelson family legacy.

Joe's love for teaching the Word of God began long before he joined Gospel Baptist Church in Archdale, NC. For many years, he taught Sunday morning Sunday School at the High Point Fire Department headquarters, where he was deeply loved by the firefighters and first responders who attended. Sharing Scripture with them was one of his greatest joys, and he treasured the relationships he built within that community.

Later, as a devoted member of Gospel Baptist Church, Joe continued to serve faithfully, finding great purpose in ministering and teaching. His church family held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every opportunity to encourage others in their faith.

Joe was a man of many talents. He spent much of his career as a skilled tool and die maker, a trade he took great pride in. His creativity extended far beyond his profession-he was an avid woodworker who delighted in crafting gifts from wood and mixed media, always with someone special in mind. Joe also had a gifted eye for photography, operating a photography studio alongside his late wife Joyce, capturing moments with care and artistry.

He enjoyed weekly carving club meetings, community socials, and time spent with friends, but nothing meant more to him than his church family and his grandchildren.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared so freely.

Joe will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at Gospel Baptist Church on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Address: 9042 US Highway 311, Archdale, NC 27263