Hershel Nelson

Posted: Wednesday, December 12, 2012 4:00 pm

Hershel Waymon Nelson, 90, of Martin went to his heavenly father’s home on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012.  His family surrounded him at his residence at the time of his death.  Mr. Nelson was born in Obion County on March 22, 1922. Hershel was the son of the late Bruce and Beulah Nelson. Brother to the late Coy Nelson, the late Franklin Nelson, and J. W. Nelson of Missouri.

Hershel was a World War II veteran serving his country in Germany and France as a medic. Dedicated to his country and fellow soldiers during the war Hershel was honored with several Bronze stars for going above and beyond the call of duty. One such event he would tell his family and friends of was being on the road that was blocked by U.S. Army soldiers due to several claymore mines buried on the road. However, wounded soldiers were on the other side of the blocked area needing to be rescued. Hershel, as a medic, knew the men needed help and volunteered to go down the mined road in the ambulance and get the wounded soldiers and bring them back to the nearest medical hospital. Days later on the sweep numerous mines were found though he never hit one.

Hershel would tell of many adventures while growing up some funny, some amazing. One of the saddest stories of all was him seeing the concentration camps, brought tears and meaning to the U. S. soldiers need to be in this war. 

Upon returning to the United States, Hershel married Dorothy Davis. They were married in 1947 and this year they celebrated 65 years together. Hershel was a talented carpenter, roofer and landscaper. He enjoyed gardening, fishing and camping with his family. Hershel was always happiest on his tractor or driving his motorhome. He often, instead of selling his garden produce would simply give it away, this because of his giving heart, and always with a smile on his face and a ready handshake.

Hershel takes his journey ahead of his wife Dorothy Nelson of Martin. Mr. Nelson is preceded on his journey by their son, Douglas Waymon Nelson. Their children Don Nelson of Martin, Debbie Nelson Williamson of Clarksville and Dana (Jon) Breland of Martin; five loving grandchildren called him Pawpaw among them are Misti Williamson, Melissa (Joe Don) Williamson Newlove, Matt Williamson, Lauren Breland and Kelsey Breland; three loving great grandchildren Cole Diesing, Kyler Newlove, and Brody Newlove.

Come celebrate Mr. Nelson’s life and life stories with his family. Going home celebration starts with visitation at Williams Funeral Home in Sharon today (Thursday) from 5-8 p.m. Visitation will also be at First Baptist Church in Martin Friday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. Burial will be at East Side Cemetery in Martin.

Online tributes may be left at williamsfhofgreenfieldandgleasonandsharon.com.

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