Apr 30, 2013

John Henry Nelson, 85, of Washington, died Sunday, April 28, 2013, in Humbert Lane Health Care Centre, South Strabane Township, following a two-year illness.

He was born January 16, 1928, in Opelika, Ala., a son of the late Thomas Nelson and Ozell Williams Pruitt.

Mr. Nelson was in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He was a steward’s mate first class aboard the USS Dauphin and the USS Shangri La. He received a World War II Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and American Campaign Medal.

He worked for I. Richman as a crane operator and a torch man for 40 years.

Mr. Nelson was a member of Friendship Baptist Church, a chairman of the Deacon Board and a member of Bachelors of Benedict and Senior Citizens Bowling League.

He was an avid sports fan and loved the Baltimore Ravens.

A man of few words, he will be greatly missed by those who appreciated his sense of humor and quiet and gentle ways.

On July 31, 1975, he married Fredda Lewis, who survives.

Also surviving are two sons, Clinton Nelson of Detroit, Mich., and John H. Nelson Jr. of Dallas, Ga.; three daughters, Arlene McFadden of Tennessee, Lynn Dampier and Frances Smith, both of Detroit; a stepson, Scott Ivery of Washington; four stepdaughters, Sharon Kelley and Renae Brock, both of Washington, Jacqueline Kelley and Angela Booker, both of Maryland; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Deceased are a stepdaughter, Kimberly Ivery, and a sister who died as an infant.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to noon, the time of service, Saturday, May 4, in Friendship Baptist Church, 17 West Walnut Street, Washington, with the Rev. Richard White officiating. Arrangements are being handled by William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., Washington.

Additional information and a guest book are available at www.NealFuneralHome.com.