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Ralph Nelson M.D.

FUNERAL HOME

McGuire Funeral Service, Inc.

7400 Georgia Avenue NW

Washington, District of Columbia

Ralph Nelson Obituary

NELSON, RALPH, M.D.

Passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, November 29, 2004. Left to cherish his memory are his mother, Suzanne; wife, Myra; son; Ralph Ryan, brothers, Robert, Raymon and Ronald and sister Natalie. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, Bobby, Nicole, Jozanne, Justin, Destiny, Janelle, Cherish, Jurrand, Raymon Jr., Chelsea, Kayla, Jasmine and Ronald Jr. Ralph was preceded in death by his father Robert R. Nelson, M.D.; sister Margaret Suzanne and aunt Vivian Davis. On Friday, December 3, 2004, visitation will be held at Largo Community Church, 1701 Enterprise Rd., Mitchellville, MD 20721 from 10 a.m. until funeral service at 11 a.m. Interment Lincoln Memorial Cemetery, Suitland, MD. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Providence Health Foundation, c/o Ralph L. Nelson, M.D., Endoscopy Suite, 1150 Varnum St. N.E., Washington, D.C. 20017 or Largo Community Church, where a room will be named for Dr. Nelson. Arrangements by McGUIRE.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post from Dec. 2 to Dec. 3, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Ralph Nelson

Sponsored by the loving Nelson family.

67 Entries

Raymon K Nelson

May 28, 2025

Happy Birthday Ralph..Still remembering you and all the fun we had..Love,Ray

Raymon K Nelson

May 28, 2025

Fond memories of me and Ralph go way back in time...We had fun ALL the time we spent together...Brothers and friends forever..Love you Ralph...Love, Ray

Raymon K Nelson MD

November 26, 2024

It's been 20 years since you were here but it seems as though I saw you last night in my dreams and in my memories. Although you are not physically here your spirit is joined with our spirits. We are all alive in the Spirit of God. Love,Ray

Raymon K Nelson MD

May 28, 2024

Happy Birthday my brother!...Still missing you! Love, Ray

Raymon K Nelson MD

November 26, 2023

Death is a transient event for us because we will live forever...Love you my brother...Love, Ray

Jozanne

September 22, 2023

It will be 20 years next year...

Raymon K Nelson MD

November 26, 2022

I will never forget the fun times we shared as children and adults. Our permanent home is in heaven..This world is just a stop off..I love you my brother...Love, Raymon K Nelson MD

Raymon K Nelson MD

November 26, 2021

I remember you just like you are still here....because I can feel your spirit all around me everyday my brother...I love you...Ray

Jozanne S. Summerville

November 27, 2020

They found a way to keep Providence Open. I spread flowers from your funeral in the parking lot. #magic

Jozanne Summerville

July 8, 2019

Providence Hospital is closing and I am 37 years old now. Remembering words of wisdom and encouragement bring a warm spirit to my heart. Lost but never forgotten.

November 1, 2014

Hey Doc, from one Doc to another. I sure do miss ya. You were real. Doc Strange (Harpist)

Jasmine Nelson

October 31, 2014

Hey Uncle Ralph, I am writing a personal statement for an internship application and you crossed mind. After typing your name in Google, I found this and happened to come across my Father's entry. I was almost in tears thinking about the two of you.

I love you Uncle Ralph & Daddy.

Jasmine Adams

March 20, 2014

Dr.Nelson our bond was uniquie I was like the daughter you never had. In my time of being a part if the family, I learned so much wisdom and knowledge from you that stuck wit me to mold me into the woman I am today. You were my 2nd dad you exposed meto positivity better things in life,helped me get over obstacles and always made sure I kept smiling. I think about you everyday,missing your guidance I will forever keep you in my heart and memories....RIP angel

Marcy Street

May 31, 2013

I miss our chats about medicine and dreams of the future for our children. I miss your laughter and the way you use to pick up Chelsea and Kayla tickle them silly. Thank you for all the advice and mentoring over the years and suggesting that pursue dermatology. You knew what would work best for me all along, even when I was 18 and did not know myself

Martina Callum, MD

July 12, 2012

Ralph..you were in my thoughts tonight...so I decided to google you..I found your obit site. First I'd like to thank the family for keeping it active so that people like me can share out thoughts..I remember the summer we met..I was working for Doc Smith in the pharmacy and you were working in your Dad's office..those were the days in Deanwood. You were at Meharry and I was at GW..we were so young! LOL! We were going to save the world..I left the area in "91" and it was "06" before I learned you had been so sick and were no longer with us..My heart was so heavy..I couldn't believe the time had gotten away from me and I didn't get a chance to reconnect with you. I'm so fortunate to have to had you as a friend..our time here is so short..I'll never forget your smile..rest in peace Ralph.
Martina

Ronald Nelson

May 30, 2012

I woke up on May 28th, 2012 thinking about Ralph. My thoughts were of all of the good times we shared. As the youngest of his brothers, I'll never forget his laughter, and his guidance, and especially his words, "Enjoy Life Every Day."

Ron

Jurrand Summerville

May 28, 2012

Thanks for everything you've done for me Uncle Ralph. I'll Never forget you.

Raymon Nelson

May 28, 2012

Missing you on your Birthday. Born: May 28 1953.

Your Brother;

Raymon

Jozanne Summerville

May 28, 2009

Just celebrated my 27th birthday. I found myslef getting choked up missing Uncle Ralph. Thinking about the things we would talk about now that I'm older, what he would think of who I've become and how much my Uncle Ralph influenced my life at such an early age.

I miss him.

Glynnis & Maurice Shane

December 1, 2006

May God continue to bless and support you,
Glynnis and Maurice Shane

Diane Bynum

December 1, 2006

I still cry. You are an amazing doctor whose care has allow me to see one more year. You have taught Dr. Young to follow in your footsteps as well. I am forever grateful and blessed. I know I have used present tense. Its because you are living eternally as God has design. God's blessings to your mother, wife and son.

Levette Crawford

November 30, 2006

To the Nelson Family:

I hope that you all are doing very well. May God continue to give you all of the strength that you need to continue on.

I'm still missing my sweet Dr. Nelson. I often thought sometimes what will I do without Dr. Nelson. God has helped me deal with this Great loss. I hope that he has helped you all with everything that you needed him too.

Much Love & Blessings
To the Entire Family

Levette Crawford

Regina McDuffie

November 29, 2006

I still think of all the happy times we had together. Your smile and laughter will always be miss by me.I know you are looking down on us today.

Kristin Trafton

November 29, 2006

Dear Myra and Ryan,

While you lost a wonderful husband, father and freind two years ago today. I only hope you and your family know just how much everyone that knew Ralph loved, admired,respected and truly enjoyed him. He will forever be missed but, never forgotten.

Sandy Macauley

November 29, 2006

I still miss you

Vern Cunningham

November 29, 2006

Dear Myra and Ray,

I'm so sorry that you lost Ralph. He's surely on a cloud watching over you. Jody and I are so happy that you two are still here. You're very special people in your own rights and from knowing Ralph.

Ron Nelson

November 29, 2006

I have a collage of photos of Ralph above my desk. I look at him all of the time, but especially when I am stressed. He is smiling in every photo. I miss him, and think about him every day.

Denise Otis

November 29, 2006

Ralph was a good friend and a great doctor to me and I miss both friend and doctor. You are missed.

Joyce Norman

November 29, 2006

Ralph was such a wonderful person who is dearly missed by Kenneth and me. There were many things that we seemed to have done together in such a short time span. Kenneth would always call Ralph when there was a boxing match on TV and invite him to our home to watch the fight. It seemed like only yesterday, on a Saturday night, when I would pass the family room and hear Ralph and Kenneth talking about this boxer or that boxer. Both of them truly enjoyed those times together. There was also the time when my mom was in the ICU at Providence, and although she was not his patient, he never failed to stop in every night before leaving the hospital to check on her. The memory of Ralph and his genuine compassion for others will always be imbedded in my mind.

Gone - but never forgotten.

Love You, Joyce & Kenneth

Brenda Dews

November 29, 2006

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

DR. NELSON STAFF

November 29, 2006

WE LOVE AND MISS U DEARLY....
DR. RALPH NELSON WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN

LOVE DR. NELSON'S STAFF

WITTNEY YOUNGBLOOD

November 29, 2006

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006

Raymon Nelson

November 29, 2006

We still miss you, Ralph.

Ralph Gets "Airborne" Practicing Karate

January 18, 2005

The "Scholarly" Ralph Nelson MD

January 18, 2005

Ralph at Graduation From Meharry Medical College 1979

January 17, 2005

Alta Cannaday

December 31, 2004

I offer my condolences to the family, friends, staff members, patients, and colleagues of Dr. Ralph Nelson.

I was stunned to recieve correspondence today from Dr. Nelson's office informing me of his passing. Though I was only a patient for a short time, his gentleness and care in treatment was comforting. Just this morning, I was looking forward to informing him that due to his treatment, I am no longer in pain after more than ten years of suffering.

He will be greatly missed, however, may his wonderful spirit abound.

May today find all who knew him at peace.

Sharon L. Strange

December 31, 2004

It was a deep sadness to learn of "my buddy" Doc Nelsons' departing in peace. He offered continual support as I played the harp each year. It was a joy baking bread for him through the years. His bubbling laughter, warm smile and wonderful personality will be long remembered. I thank God for placing Dr.Nelson among us-he was so very special. To the family, I send my condolences and continue to lift you all in prayer. Keep the faith. Jesus IS coming again, and what a glorious day that will be. Sharon ("Doc Strange"~AKA "The Harp Lady" at Providence Hospital)

Diane Bynum

December 28, 2004

I was deeply hurt to learn of the passing of Dr. Nelson on yesterday. Dr. Nelson is the reason why I am doing well today. He encouraged my faith when life looked so grim and when other doctors had no answers for me. He found one! I am forever grateful. Dr. Nelson, rest in peace. Love You!

April Cartledge

December 15, 2004

To the Nelson Family:

It is with great shock and sadness as I have learned of Dr. Nelson's passing. Dr. Nelson has been caring for me for over 8 years at Providence Hospital. I will truly miss him.

Earth has no sorrow that heaven cannot heal!

I send my sincere condolence to the Nelson Family

Deborah McCutchen-Truesdale,RN

December 9, 2004

I was shocked and sadden to learn of the passing of Dr. Nelson. He and I first met and worked together at DCGH a long time ago, about 10 years ago we had the pleasure of working together again, he was a wonderful person, a very gifted physician and had a great sense of humor. He was tolerant and kind to everyone and will be greately missed. When my mother became ill, and needed an gastroenterologist, of course Dr. Nelson was who we took her to see. His family has my most sincere sympathy. To Ramon you guys were two peas in a pot, as long as you live Ralph will never be completely gone.

Andrew Turner

December 9, 2004

To the Nelson Family. It sadden me to hear of your lost. I met Ralph when we attened Gordon Jr. High many years ago. He was always a great inspiration to me and I have never forgotten him and never will. May God give you relief and you will be in my prayers.

Gene & Carolyn Sandros

December 7, 2004

To The Family of Dr. Ralph Nelson

Somewhere a journey begins

At the end of the worldly existence we know,

Somewhere a path stretches over the stars,

And river of memories flow,

Somewhere a silence is heard far away

And the brightness of day fills the night,

Where the trials of life are resolved into peace

When a soul finds its way to the light.

We would like to express our deepest sympathy.

Jeffrey Mazique

December 7, 2004

I first met Ralph when I was a resident at DC General and he was an intern. He was an outstanding physician, but the best quality he possessed is that he was funny!! We had many frantic episodes at DCGH, particularly in the Emergency Room, but I never saw him get angry ,or raise his voice and somehow he could always find humor in our dilemmas.He will be missed, there will never be another like him. I am glad to have known him

Linda Martin Stewart

December 6, 2004

Dear Myra and Family,

Please accept my sympathy, love and prayers as you mourn the loss of your dear Ralph. May God give you comfort, peace and even joy as you celebrate Ralph's life and the legacy that he left for you.

Lin

Fisk '77

Tracy Harris

December 6, 2004

To the Family of Dr. Ralph Nelson

I was so sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. May God be with you in your time of sadness and may you find comfort in the love and warm thoughts of friends and family.

All our Love,

Tracy and Kevin Harris

KENNETH CARTER .SR

December 6, 2004

THANK YOU DR.NELSON,KENNETH CARTER.SR

Barbara Phillips

December 5, 2004

To the Nelson Family,we are truly and deeply sorry for the loss of Ralph Nelson M.D. Our prayers will be with the entire Nelson Family.with Love, Mike, Barbara, Garrett Phillips

Jeannette Essix

December 4, 2004

From my family to the Nelson family, Dr Nelson was a very good person who will surely be missed. We are asking the Lord to be with him and smile on him always. May his soul rest in peace.

kETURAH THOMAS

December 4, 2004

To the Nelson family, we send our deepest sympathy. Dr. Ralph Nelson will be missed. May his soul rest in peace with the Lord

James & Rhonda Chappelle

December 4, 2004

Myra:

We were very sorry to hear of Ralph's passing. May you find comfort in the wonderful life and memories that you shared. We will miss him.

Sincerely,

James & Rhonda Chappelle

Mark Wanliss

December 4, 2004

To Ray & The Nelson family,

We were deeply shocked and saddened to hear of Ralph's passing. I will always remember his smile and greeting. Father God I ask You to bless and comfort the Nelson family during this time of loss and pain. Lord give them Your peace and mercy. Reveal to them Your power and love. Holy Spirit, I ask You to minister to their spirits at this very moment in Jesus'precious name! Amen.

Charlene Moore-Cooper

December 3, 2004

Dear Nelson Family,

May you find peace in the certain knowledge of our Creator's great love and abundant blessings in our lives. You won't know me, but I am one of Raymon's and Ralph's many grateful patients. We will surely miss Ralph, and will remember to speak peace for your family in our prayers.

Cliff & Angela Briley Gwyn

December 3, 2004

Dear Myra & The Nelson Family:

We were so sorry to hear of the loss of Ralph. His spirit was just the happiest and his joy radiated through his smile. God is smiling for his son is home. You will be forever in our thoughts, hearts, and prayers. God Bless you and Ralph Ryan.

Sandra Charles MD

December 3, 2004

It is with a deep sense of shock and sadness that I learned of Dr. Nelson's death. He was a colleague and a wonderful physician. My sincere condolences to the entire family, and my prayers for the repose of his soul.

Phyllis Jones

December 3, 2004

To the Nelson family

I was deeply seddened to hear of the death of Dr. Nelson, I will always remember his smile. My prays are with the family and friends

one of his patients.

Patricia Robinson

December 3, 2004

To Dr. Nelson's Family,

Being a patient of Dr. Nelson was being a friend. I loved him and his sense of humor. Always a smile when you saw him. He will be truly missed and I am sure that you know what a wonderful man we have lost.

Doris Enyinnaya

December 3, 2004

To all the Nelson Family

From your friends at Providence Hospital I.C.U. We wish to express our condolences. May the good Lord be your comforter and we know Dr. Nelson is with the Lord may his soul rest in peace.

Gladys Massey

December 2, 2004

I was very sorry as well as suprised to hear of the death of one of my favorite physicians' Dr. Ralph Nelson, his infectious smile will surely be missed.

Mae Randall

December 2, 2004

To the Nelson family

I was incredibly saddened to hear of Ralphs passing. I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't know the Nelson family. I feel fortunate to have known Ralph since we were small children. He was always funny,sweet and kind. Even in high school when kids have a tendency to be gossipy and cruel, I never heard a contrary word about anyone originate with Ralph. It is no surprise to me that his wonderful personality carried over into his medical practice. I only regret that as we all got older and had families and careers of our own, I lost touch with Ralph and so many of our friends. However, I always got word about him through mutual friends and one of my clients who was an adoring patient of his. Heaven truly has a new angel with a kind, mischievious sense of humor that will truly be missed on earth.

With Love and Sympathy,

Mae Randall

Karen Hamilton

December 2, 2004

To the family of Dr. Ralph Nelson: This angel sent from above will truly be missed by all of us. He was a doctor to me, both my sisters and my mother and we all loved him. His "bedside manner" and sense of humor always made any situation more pleasant (especially those colonoscopies). He really had a way of calming you down. We should have more doctors like him. My condolences to the family and May God Bless You All.

Nanette DeBruhl, MD

December 2, 2004

Dear Myra and Nelson Family,

I was deeply saddened to hear the news about Ralph. He was truly a wonderful friend and a gifted physician. I will miss him. All my love to you.

Levette Crawford

December 2, 2004

To the Nelson Family:

Dr. Nelson was an angel sent from heaven to all of his patients and family. I thank God for Dr. Nelson being in my life. He did a procedure on me and because of the medication that I needed for the procedure he laughed at me some kind of funny. He was very precious to me. I always talked very highly of him. When I got the news about Dr. Nelson, for just a few seconds my heart stopped, because the first thing I said was not my Dr. Nelson. I spoke to another Dr's office and said that I was very happy that he new the Lord. A loss to the community, but a victory for heaven. May God strengthen you and your entire family in your time of grief. Many Blessings and comfort.

Thank you Jesus for your angel.

Levette Crawford

Marian Buck

December 2, 2004

To the family of Ralph Nelson,

I had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Nelson as a patient of Dr. Griffin and it was truly a joy to know this fun person.

He always teased me about how he would do a colonoscopy procedure and just laugh at my reaction.

I visited with him in May of 2004 when I was in Washington. He and his infectious smile will truly be missed.

God Bless You All

ANGELIA VINCENT

December 2, 2004

TO: THE FAMILY OF DR. NELSON

I AM SO SORRY TO HERE OF HIS DEATH BUT TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO KNOW HE IS WITH THE LORD.

TAKE THE TIME TO REMEMBER THE GOOD PERSON HE WAS AND WITHIN YOUR HEART HE WILL LIVE FOREVER.

8 MED

PROVIDENCE HOSPITAL

SILKA SANCHEZ

December 2, 2004

WE OFFER OUR CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY. DR. RALPH NELSON WAS A WONDERFUL PERSON AND HE'LL BE MISSED BY ALL.

LOVE DR. RAYMON K. NELSON, MD STAFF MEMBERS

Clinton Jackson

December 2, 2004

Ralph was a good friend, brother and Doctor, and I'm sure he was an even better son, father, husband and uncle. He is missed, but will be warmly remembered, and we are all better for having known him.

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