Nelson W. Sheets

Nelson W. Sheets, age 91 of McGaheysville, VA, passed away on November 18. Born on April 2, 1934, Nelson was the son of Walter and Minnie (Wampler) Sheets. He was a member of the first graduating class of Montevideo High School. Duty called and Nelson served 3 years in the United States Army, afterwards returning to Rockingham County.
Nelson lived his entire life farming and was a founding member of Faraway Farms Inc. and Faraway Farms Egg Inc. Nelson always exhibited immense dedication to family, church, and community. His kind demeanor, commitment to servanthood, and desire to do the right thing was a reflection of his Christian faith and great integrity.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Nelson is survived by his wife of 67 years, Martha Lou (Smith) Sheets. Together, they raised their family in a loving home. Nelson is survived by his daughter Kimly (Sheets) Schlabach and husband Richard; his son W. Keith Sheets and wife Jennifer; his grandchildren, Dustin (Christine) Schlabach, Jill (Jake) Maier, Jared (Ashley) Sheets, Jacob (Layla) Sheets, Caleb Sheets, and Joshua (Claudia) Sheets; as well as 8 great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Nelson was preceded in death by brothers Calvin Sheets, Roy Sheets, and sister Erma Wood.
Nelson was a well respected and active member of various organizations. He served on numerous commissions at Mill Creek Church of the Brethren including Church Board, Disaster Relief projects, and the Kitchen Committee. As an active and long time member of the McGaheysville Ruritan Club, Nelson served as President and Zone Governor. He was an active member who provided leadership to many organizations over the years including, but not limited to, the Virginia Poultry Federation, Rockingham Cooperative Farm Bureau, Rockingham County Fair, Virginia Egg Council, and the Virginia Egg Board.
A Memorial Service will be held on Sunday, November 23 at 5:00pm at Mill Creek Church of the Brethren, officiated by Pastor Glenn Bollinger and Pastor Ryan McAllister. The family will receive friends following the Worship Service in the Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be given in Nelson's memory to the Forever Family Fund of Bridgewater Retirement Community - BRC Foundation, 302 North Second St, Bridgewater, VA 22812.
Nelson's legacy will always be his commitment to faith, kindness, humbleness and servanthood. He will be remembered as a tireless worker who inspired many.