Nelson Ticknor Durden

Nelson Ticknor Durden

Nelson Ticknor Durden, a devoted father, grandfather, and friend, departed this life on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Charlotte, NC. Born in Baltimore on November 3, 1936, he was the only child of Ann and Sylvester Durden. He grew up in Hampton, VA, where he spent a happy childhood playing with friends and sailing on the waters of the Hampton Roads.

From an early age, Nelson was captivated by history, a passion shaped by his childhood memories of a nation at war. This love of history stayed with him throughout his life.

Nelson attended Episcopal High School in Alexandria, VA, a place he held in the highest regard-so much so that he wore his class ring until the day he died. While visiting friends in Richmond during high school, he met the love of his life, Molly Ellerson. Their connection grew stronger over the years, and she was a frequent visitor when Nelson attended Hampden-Sydney College in Farmville, VA. He was a proud member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity, where he made lifelong friendships and often reminisced about the fun and camaraderie of those years-especially when Molly was there for parties at the Kappa Sig house.

After graduating from Hampden-Sydney, Nelson attended the University of Virginia School of Law, earning his degree in 1963. He and Molly married in 1961, just after his first year of law school, beginning a loving marriage and devoted partnership that lasted over six decades until her death in 2023.

Following law school, Nelson returned to Hampton where he began his law career at the firm of Downing and Andrews. In 1973, he was elected as a Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Judge, a role he embraced wholeheartedly until his retirement. His work was more than just a job-it was a calling. He was deeply committed to helping children and families, believing strongly in second chances for those who came before him.

Nelson, Molly, and their two children, Ann and Ned, built a happy life in Hampton. Their home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and a steady stream of visitors. Nelson was known for his ever-present smile, kindness, quick wit, and for giving friends lifelong nicknames. He also enjoyed sharing a good cocktail in the company of friends, all the while being the consummate gentleman.

While he loved his work and his friends, family was always Nelson's top priority. He often said he became a judge to spend more time with his children. He and Molly rarely missed their children's athletic events and school activities. As Ann and Ned grew, he and Molly remained a steady presence in their lives, frequently visiting them at Hollins College and the University of Virginia, where they became well known for their famous tailgates, at which all were welcome.

Later, when Ann and Ned had families of their own, Nelson embraced his role as "Pops" with joy, cherishing every moment with his grandchildren-Jane, St. George, Zunny, and Annie.

Beyond his career and family, Nelson was devoted to his community. He was actively involved with the United Way, St. John's Episcopal Church in Hampton, the Hampton 400th Anniversary Celebration, and worked tirelessly to support the juvenile justice system in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Nelson is survived by his daughter, Ann Durden Donovan; his son, Edmund Nelson Durden (Laurie) and his grandchildren, St. George Tucker Donovan, Anne Tucker Lauzun Donovan, Jane Randolph Durden, and Suzanne Page Durden. He was predeceased by his parents and his beloved wife, Molly.

The family is deeply grateful to Atrium's Perspective Health, Waltonwood Cotswold, Care Weavers, Via Health Partners (Hospice), and First Light Home Care for the incredible care and kindness they showed to "the Judge" in his final years.

A memorial service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at St. John's Episcopal Church in Hampton, VA.

Nelson Ticknor Durden lived a life filled with purpose, laughter, and love. His legacy of kindness, integrity, and devotion to his family and community will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.