Eddie Jackson Nelson

Eddie Jackson Nelson of Hilliard, Florida went home to be with Jesus, his Lord and Savior, on Jan 1, 2024 peacefully surrounded by his family. He was born on November 5th, 1954 to Earl and Bertha Johnson Nelson in Folkston, Ga. 

Having been born into a logging family, Eddie followed in their footsteps and continued to log his entire life in one way or another. In addition to logging, he had a number of career accomplishments throughout his 69 years.  He first began as the Chief of Police in Hilliard, Fl before going to work hauling cars for Dixie Transport. After many memorable years as a trucker, Eddie went full time with the Nassau County Sheriffs Department. He earned the position of Sergeant and soon moved into the role of Lieutenant. After retiring in 2006, he pursued his dream of owning his own business and opened E&J Nelson Tractor Services. His last work venture was with Hobbs Trucking where he continued to add to his cherished group of friends and "adopted" kids! 

    This strong, mountain of a man, was a man of his word who's generosity and love was felt by generations of family and friends. There was nothing more important to him than his beautiful wife of 50 years, Sue, his 4 children,8 grandchildren and his great granddaughter who he nicknamed "Ellie Pig". His whole life, Eddie had a passion for fishing, hunting, gardening and building the bird houses that his sweet Sue loved. These passions grew stronger when he was able to share and teach these things to his kids and grandkids. His passions will live on through them. Breakfast could certainly be considered a passion of his for sure... couldn't start the day without it! Starting his day with his all of his friends and buddies at the local diners was truly one of his most treasured parts of the week!  

    Eddie Nelson will always and forever be remembered as a man who loved and lived for his family. A man who always rooted for the underdog and dedicated time in carrying the load for others who struggled in their own journey through life. A man who was incredibly proud of his kids and grandbabies teaching them important lessons in life, especially to respect people no matter their station in life. A man with endless stories of "the good all days"  with a sense of humor life non other!  A one of a kind, incredibly loved and respected man by all that knew him!

    Eddie was proceeded in death by his parents, Earl and Bertha Nelson and brothers, Steve and Freddie. Survived by his wife, Sue Nelson (Jones), his children Freddie (Amy), Mendy (Justin), Josh (Dana) and Jason, His grandkids, Julia (Joey), Madison (Jordan), Jack, Ethan, Jackson, Hoss, Zack and Brogen, and his great granddaughter Ellie June. Sisters, Emily (Bobby) Franklin, Elsie (Lawton) Braddock-Carter, Clara (Russel) Guynn-Sikes. Step siblings, Shelia Lindsey and Johnny Rawls.

    

Pallbearers: Ben Hobbs, Bo Moody, Larry Durham, Hank Martinez, David King and Brian Turner.

   

Honorary Pallbearers: Bruce Cribb, Albert Anderson, Moe (Elmer) Dowd, John McCullough, Donnie Nelson, Alexander  Herrington, Ronnie (Turtle) Moore, Andy Herrin, Keith Whaley.

 

Viewing at Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home in Folkston, GA from 6-8pm on Friday, January 5th.

Funeral Services are at 11am on Saturday, January 6th at Hilliard First Assembly in Hilliard, FL officiated by Pastor Arlie Johns and Pastor Eric Osborne. Graveside will be held at the Mill Creek Cemetery directly after the service.

Lunch will be served immediately after at Hilliard First Assembly.