John Henry Nelson

Deacon of Friendship Baptist Church John Henry Nelson, 85, of Washington, died Sunday, April 28, at Humbert Lane Health Care Centre following a two year illness. He was born January 16, 1928, in Opelika, Alabama, a son of the late Thomas Nelson and Ozell Williams Pruitt. Mr. Nelson was in the Navy during World War II, he was a Steward’s Mate First Class aboard the U.S.S. Dauphin and the U.S.S. Shangri La. He received a World War II Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and American Campaign Medal. He worked for the 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, 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, John 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 Nelson, who survives. Also surviving are two sons, Clinton Nelson of Detroit, Michigan, John H. Nelson Jr. of Dallas, Georgia; three daughters, Arlene McFadden, of Tennessee, Lynn Dampier and Frances Smith both of Detroit; a stepson, Scott Ivery of Washington; four step daughters, Sharon Kelley, 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 sister who died as an infant. Friends will be received 2 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 3, and Saturday, May 4 from 10:00 a.m. to noon, the time of service in Friendship Baptist Church, 17 West Walnut St, with Rev. Richard White officiating. Arrangements are being handled by Wm. G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd.