Ronald Keith Nelson

Ronald Keith Nelson, 94, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, in DeRidder, Louisiana. Born on July 4, 1930, in Galveston, Texas to Curtis Scott Nelson Sr. and Sylvia Faye Sarver Nelson, Keith lived a life rich with love and purpose.
He shared nearly 74 years of marriage with his adoring wife Marjorie Nelson. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love; together they built not only a family but also cherished memories that spanned decades. Keith is survived by his son, Roger Dale Nelson and daughter-in-law Mary; two daughters-in-law, Randa Nelson and Vickie Nelson; eight grandchildren who adored him deeply; and thirteen great-grandchildren who brought endless joy to his heart.
A proud Korean War veteran, Keith served his country with honor before embarking on a successful career as a district manager in the gas industry. His passion for education led him to become a professor where he taught finance at the college level-an endeavor that allowed him to inspire countless students throughout the years. His passion for learning extended beyond the classroom as he enjoyed giving advice rooted in wisdom gained from both experience and education.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Keith had an unwavering love for nature and farming. He found immense satisfaction raising black Angus cattle on their farm-a testament to both hard work and dedication that he instilled in those around him. The outdoors was not just where he worked but also where he thrived alongside Marjorie during their younger years spent traveling to their beloved cabin in Mancos Colorado created lasting memories filled with laughter against breathtaking backdrops.
An avid coin collector known for sharing stories about each piece's history or significance over family gatherings made every moment spent together memorable. He loved giving advice-his wisdom often sought after by friends and family alike-and it was this nurturing spirit that endeared him even more deeply within the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.
Keith's legacy will live on through all whose lives he touched: from childhood memories filled with laughter at home surrounded by family dinners overflowing with warmth-to quiet moments reflecting upon life lessons learned under starlit skies at their cabin retreat.
Though he faced profound loss throughout his life-including the passing of two sons: Raymond Scott Nelson and Ronald Keith Nelson Jr., as well as brother Curtis Scott Nelson Jr.-his spirit remained unbroken. Family was everything to him; each moment spent surrounded by loved ones was treasured above all else.
Visitation will be held on Monday evening from 5:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Labby Memorial Funeral Home in DeRidder-a time for friends and family alike to come together honoring this remarkable man's legacy through shared stories of kindness & strength over generations past & present.
A graveside service will take place Tuesday afternoon at Beauregard Cemetery at 1:00 PM led by Pastor Laraine Waughtal-an opportunity for those whose lives were touched by Keith's warmth & generosity-to say goodbye while celebrating what made him truly special.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the First United Methodist Church for the Wesley Education Center.
Those honored to serve as honorary pallbearers are Kayla Caldwell, Danielle McGurn, Richard Atkinson, Jason Nelson, Jamie Smith, Stephen Tipton, and Vanessa Truby.
As we gather together remembering Keith's remarkable journey here among us let us carry forward not only fond recollections but also emulate kindness & generosity reflective of everything he stood for throughout this beautiful life well-lived!