Johnnie Lee Nelson

March 21, 1947 - November 11, 2019

Rev. Johnnie Lee Nelson, Sr. was born to the union of Andy and Vester Nelson on March 21, 1947 in Pelahatchie Mississippi. He was one of nine siblings who all preceded him in death. He was educated in the Mississippi School System. In 1967, he moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he became employed at General Motors from August 1967 to July 2008 when he finally retired. In June of 1968, he married his wife, Betty Jean Gray Nelson of 51 years. To this union three children were born. two sons and one daughter. One son, Ira Lamont Nelson preceded him in death. He also was the father of his oldest daughter from a previous marriage. In August of 1978, he was called to pastor New Evergreen M.B.C. where he served faithfully until 2000. Later, he joined Hopewell M.B.C. under the leadership of the Rev. George L. McFoulon and Rev. Donald McNeal. He served faithfully until his health began to take a toll. He loved the Lord and believed all things in life happened for a reason. He leaves to cherish his memories: his wife of 51 years Betty, his son ~ Johnnie L. Nelson, Jr.; his daughters ~ Patricia D. Nelson-Adams; his baby ~ Kina D. Nelson-Davis; his son-in-law who he always said would take care of Baby Poo as he called her ~ Justin Alexander Davis; three grandsons ~ two sisters-in-law ~ Lorraine Gray Williams (Charles) and Loretta Gray; one niece ~ Tracy Gray-Fields; his dear friend ~ Sarah Louise Donahue who cared for him some days when help was needed; and a host of relatives and friends.