Melvin Leon Nelson

Mr. Melvin Leon Nelson, 83, passed away Thursday, January 16, 2025, at the Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Center. Melvin was born on May 21, 1941, in Forsyth County, to Mr. and Mrs. Troy and Helen Nelson. He was a member of Gospel Light Baptist Church where he served in the Bus Ministry for over 30 years. Melvin served in the U.S. Army and Army reserves. He retired from R.J. Reynolds after 35 years. Melvin enjoyed watching the Duke Blue Devils basketball team, the Chicago Cubs, the Atlanta Braves, and the Carolina Panthers. He also enjoyed watching NASCAR, playing golf, working on his cars, reading books, and working outside in his yard and flower beds. His favorite flower was the red rose. Melvin was a lover of history and had a deep love for his country and the military. He enjoyed watching western TV shows, black and white films, and the History Channel. Melvin is preceded in death by his parents, Troy Nelson and Helen Morphis Nelson. Surviving are his wife of 56 years, Mrs. Vonda Nelson of Kernersville; two daughters, Kim Stewart (Briane) of Kernersville and Christy Nelson (Silvia) of Raleigh; two sisters, Carolyn Pope and Pat Still, both of Kernersville; two brothers, Ken Nelson (Linda) of High Point and Troy Nelson (Jan) of Richmond, VA.; one granddaughter, Hannah Stewart of Kernersville, and his cat, Boots. The funeral service will be held at 4 PM Monday, January 20, 2025, at Gospel Light Baptist Church  with Rev. Justin Cooper, Rev. Frank Shumate, and Rev. Steve Roberson officiating the service. The family will receive friends from 3 PM to 3:45 PM prior to the service at the church. The graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 12 PM at Eastlawn Gardens of Memory in Kernersville, NC with Frank Shumate officiating the service. Memorials may be made to the Gospel Light Baptist Church Bus Ministry, 890 Walkertown Guthrie Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27101. Hayworth-Miller Kernersville Chapel is assisting the family.