Gene Nelson

Eugene “Gene” Nelson, of Joshua, went to his heavenly home on Friday, October 7 surrounded by his loving family at his bedside.

He was born October 19, 1942, in Van Nuys, California to Bernice & Edward Nelson. He graduated from Big Spring High School in 1961, then joined the Marine Corps and served for 4 years. After finishing his duty, he came back home to Texas, where he then met the love of his life, Kathy Bentley. They married September 7, 1968, and just celebrated 54 years together. Gene and Kathy were blessed with 3 children and 6 grandchildren. Gene spent most of his life in Joshua, Texas. He was a member of Lane Prairie Baptist Church.

Gene was well-known in the community through his various business ventures, including Nelson Plumbing, Joshua Propane, Joshua Mini Storage, and JMS Hauling. His passions were spending time with God, family and friends and restoring vintage hot rods. He was always willing to drop whatever he was doing to help anyone and never asked for anything in return. His unique sense of humor could make any situation better. Anyone that knew him knew that if his shop doors were up, it was an open invitation to stop by and “shoot the bull.” He spent much of his time at car shows across the country, winning many awards and making good friends. Words cannot express what a wonderful husband, dad, gramps, and friend he was. We eagerly await the day we will see him again.

Gene is survived by his wife, Kathy; son Eric and wife Miranda; son Brent and wife Leslie; daughter Mindy and husband John; five grandchildren; brothers Gary and Mark Williams; multiple nieces and nephews; and many friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; one granddaughter; brothers Chuck and Tommy Nelson; and sister Billie Baker.