Jimmy Ray Nelson was born on July 22, 1939, at his parents’ home east of Licking, MO. His parents were Delbert D. and Iva (Shipp) Nelson. He was the youngest of three siblings. Jim passed away on October 25, 2024, with his family by his side in Houston, MO after suffering with pneumonia. Jim, as he was known, grew up on a farm east of Licking, MO. He attended Licking Grade School and High School and graduated with the class of 1958. On June 17, 1961, Jim married Karen Ann Cavaness. They were married for 63 years. Their children are Terry Ray Nelson and Tina Marie (Nelson) Creech. Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert D. & Iva (Shipp) Nelson; brothers, Lloyd Nelson and Doyle Nelson; and sisters-in-law, Patsy Nelson and Emily Nelson. He is survived by his wife, Karen Nelson; son, Terry Nelson and wife Vicki; daughter, Tina Creech and husband Mike; grandchildren, Joe Nelson and wife Jennifer (Brown) Nelson and Whitney (Nelson) Khreiss and husband Dr. Wael Khreiss; great-grandchildren, Atlee and Sawyer Nelson and Dahlia Khreiss; step grandchildren, Matthew (Jen) Creech, Mason (Donna) Creech, Ryan (Ginger) Smith, Kassi (JJ) Ramsey; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends. Jim attended the Shipp Chapel Church and was baptized at age 16. Later in life he was baptized by Rev. Ed Gibson who was the pastor of the Licking First Baptist Church. He later moved his church membership to Boone Creek Baptist Church. The first business Jim owned was a D-X Service Station at the 4-way stop at Licking, MO. Around 1965, Jim bought a backhoe and established a good business. In 1969 Jim established Nelson Redi-Mix. Jim sold the business in 1999 and retired. He also enjoyed raising cattle and making hay on the farm. Jim was active in civic affairs. He served as Alderman for the City of Licking for 25 years. He was involved with the Licking Chamber of Commerce and volunteered with the Licking Volunteer Fire Department. Jim was a classic car buff and restored several Ford Mustangs. He enjoyed riding motorcycles with his friend Bill Walker. Other hobbies were CB radios, painting pictures, and spending time at his log cabin on the family farm. Several different nicknames were given to Jim by his friends including Budgie, Jace, Rocky, and Scrooge. In recent years, he suffered many issues with his health. Through it all, he fought to keep his independence as much as possible. During his illnesses, his family took care of him and made sure he had what he needed while having as much independence as possible. His passing will be keenly felt by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Memorial contributions may be made to Boone Creek Cemetery in loving memory of Jimmy.
