Gene Clark Nelson passed from this life on August 3, 2019.  

Born to Mamie and Buxton Nelson of Rich Square, North Carolina, on August 23, 1934, Gene was in his 63rd year of marriage with Dorothy Baisey Nelson, whom he fiercely loved and honored with his loyalty and dedication. 

They proudly parented three sons: Rodney, Greg, and Doug. 

Gene was a US Army veteran. After his service, he returned home to Rich Square to continue working at Roanoke Electric Cooperative, where he was employed 47 years and represented Halifax County and areas of Northampton County and was known by many as “the light man.” Following his 47 years, he returned from retirement and worked as a contractor for Roanoke Electric for two additional years. 

In 1974, Gene and his family were one of five families to start The Good News Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids, where he was a charter member, trustee, deacon, finance committee member, and “go-to man” for many things that needed to be done. 

In recent years and at the time of his death, he enjoyed membership and worship at Victory Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids. 

Among many things he enjoyed were planting and cultivating his annual vegetable gardens and maintaining a beautiful lawn at home. He was a sports fan during all seasons and watched whoever was playing, but he always pulled for the Tar Heels. As a man who loved and honored God, he saw his primary responsibility as provider and protector for his family and did so sacrificially.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his brother Raeford; his sisters Frances Boykin, Margaret Harrell, and Janie Sumner. 

In addition to his wife and sons, he is survived by his brothers W.C. and Dick and his grandchildren: Morgan Nelson, Matthew Nelson, Caitlin Nelson, Garrison Nelson, and Ashton Nelson. He also is survived by several nieces and nephews and their families.

A memorial service to honor Gene’s life will be at 6:00 p.m., August 6, 2019, at Victory Baptist Church in Roanoke Rapids led by his pastor the Reverend Jeremy Kobernat. 

The family will receive guests in the Evans Building at the church immediately following the service; persons unable to attend the service are welcome to visit with the family at that time. Private family graveside rites will be at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids. 

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates consideration of contributions in memory of Gene to the Victory Baptist Church Bus Ministry, 2360 Bolling Road, Roanoke Rapids NC 27870. 

Online condolences may be sent to hockadayfs.com

Arrangements are under the care of Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service.