Nelson Stubbs

Nelson R. Stubbs, of Reading, entered into eternal rest on October 11, 2013 at the age of 75.

Born August 25, 1938, Nelson was the son of the late Earl F. Stubbs and Ruth E. (Hurdle) Stubbs. He was baptized at the Zion Baptist Church as a child.

Nelson was a loving and devoted husband, who loved his wife beyond all measure. He was a dedicated father, son, brother, uncle, grandfather and a good friend to many people.

He is survived by his wife, Maryann (Stevenson) Stubbs; his two children Nelson E. Stubbs, Shillington and AnnMarie (Stubbs) Metz, wife of Gregory J. Metz, Reading. He was one of ten children and is survived by two brothers: Earl J., husband of Ann (Chavis) Stubbs, Greensboro, NC and Vaughn D. of Philadelphia; and two sisters: Emma B. (Stubbs), wife of Raymond L. White, Reading and Cynthia D. (Stubbs), wife of Hugh Hill, of Kent, CT.

He is also survived by six grandchildren: Aliva J., Tylor L. and Nelson D. Stubbs, Reading; and John G., Jason N., and Maya A. Metz, Reading; his Aunt Nicey Seay, Reading; and his beloved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by three brothers: William J., Charles L., and Frederick R Stubbs, and two sisters: Marilyn E. (Stubbs) Gilmore and Pamela R (Stubbs)

Ransom.

Nelson founded Stubbs Cleaning Services, in 1970 and Stubbs Laundromat in 1983 and is a well-known and respected businessman and was active in the Berks County Community. Nelson honorably served the community and his country as a U.S. Marine, emergency ambulance responder for the Reading Hospital, and a Berks County prison guard.

As a champion of change, he was one of the first black members of the local advisory board of First Union National Bank, the Berks County Chamber of Commerce, the BCTV board, and the Hispanic Council of Reading and Berks County. He also proudly served as a Rotarian and with the NAACP. Nelson was instrumental in helping to diversify the face of Berks County.

Nelson had a passion for photography, sailing, history, world travel, and jazz music. He was especially dedicated and proud to support his grandchildren in their educational and athletic endeavors.

A pillar to the community, Nelson was an advocate for education and opportunity and saw potential in all people. From rewarding kids in the neighborhood for good grades to being a second father or big brother, Nelson's heart was large enough to share his love with everyone he knew.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held Thursday October 17 at 12:30 p.m. at Bean Funeral Home, 3825 Penn Ave., Sinking Spring, PA 19608. Family and friends may extend their respects to Nelson's family starting at 10:30 a.m. Burial at Charles Evans Cemetery, 1119 Center Ave., Reading, PA 19601 will follow the service.

In lieu of flowers and in memory of Nelson, contributions may be made to the Nelson R. Stubbs Education Fund at Wells Fargo Bank, 101 Love Road, Reading, PA 19607. Online condolences may be sent to www.beanfuneralhomes.com.