Willie Edward Nelson

Willie Edward Nelson was born December 1, 1950 in Giles County, Tennessee to the late James and Sallie Nelson. He entered eternal rest on Monday, March 1, 2021.

Willie, affectionately known as “Will” was educated in the Giles County Public School System. As a young boy, he faithfully attended church services with his mother and siblings at Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Giles County. He had a love for cars and spending time with family and friends. Will also enjoyed playing cards and cooking, especially “Turnip Greens”. A joy came from making his famous “Kool-Aid” for the great-nephews and nieces.
As a hard worker, he was employed for 40 years with Environmental Services at Vanderbilt University in the Plant Operations Department where he later retired.

Will was preceded in death by his parents, James Edward Nelson and Sallie Nelson; sister, Erma Louise Holt; and brother, James Arthur Nelson.

Will leaves to cherish his memory four children: Kenneth (Dorinda) Dyer, Alethea Humphrey, Lolita King, and Courtney Richardson; thirteen grandchildren: Thomas Richardson, Allen & Alonte Moses, Kenneth “KJ” Dyer, Jr., Eboni, Ivory, and Rajae Williams, Sameka and Courtney Richardson Jr., Cu’ron Claybrooks, Koreyon Jordon, Christopher Jefferson Jr., and Kendra Payne; twelve great-grandchildren; three sisters: Alice Marie Nelson of Pulaski, TN; Ruby Nelson and Anna Nelson both of Nashville, TN; sister-in-law: Elizabeth Nelson of Nashville, TN; uncle: Kenneth (Maxine) Gilbert of Detroit, Michigan; a host of nieces and nephews; very devoted nephew: Jeffrey Nelson; devoted cousin: Bennett Tucker; loving devoted friend: Jessie Knight; other relatives and friends.