Earl Kenneth Nelson

Earl Kenneth (Ken) Nelson went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on March 20, 2026. He was born April 8, 1941 in Six Mile, SC to the late Berger Walter Nelson and Roxie Smith Nelson.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Anita Mackl Nelson of 64 years. Daughters Sandra Poole (Randy) and Vivian King (Alan) both in Gaston, SC. Grandchildren Joshua Keisler (Sara) of GA, Karissa Valora (Mike) of PA, Kelly Semenza (Dan) of SC, Luke Beasley (Fiancé Whitney) of SC, and Jared Poole (Carly) of SC; 11 great grandchildren; brother George Nelson (Betty), sisters Rena Mills (Randy), Henrietta Chastain (Terry) and Lillian Harden Murphy all of Walhalla, SC along with many beloved family and friends.

Ken was preceded in death by two brothers, four sisters, grandson Brady King and great grandson Everett Semenza.

He served in the US Army for 3½ years as a medic in Germany where he met his wife. Retired from Overnite Transportation after 30 years. He was an ordained deacon at Christian Fellowship Baptist Church in 1982 by Rev. Carl B. Koon. He served as church treasurer, Sunday School teacher and served on many committees. He loved fishing, attending family reunions and making people laugh.

The family will gather on March 23, 2026 at Gaston First Baptist Church, 121 Oakey Springs Drive, Gaston at 1:00pm to receive friends. The service will follow at 2:00pm, Tuesday in the church sanctuary.   Burial with military honors will follow in the church cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family requests anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution to the First Baptist Church of Gaston’s building fund.

Culler McAlhany Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.