Roll Call Tribute

John Emmett Nelson 

August 21, 1934 - April 10, 2024 

John Emmett Nelson, faithful Christian, devoted husband, loving father, and papaw gained his heavenly reward on April 10, 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents- John Daniel and Mary Alice Birmingham Nelson and two brothers – Benjamin Franklin (Jack) Nelson, and Paul Nelson.

John was a man of passion and love. He adored his wife, Betty Ruth Nelson, with his whole heart and treasured her throughout their 64 years of marriage. John is survived by his children Mary Elizabeth Price and Carey of Huntsville, TX and John Daniel Nelson of Huntsville, TX. His grandchildren: Reagan, Clay and Steeley Nelson and great-granddaughter, Paisleigh Nelson. Bonus grandchildren include Elizabeth Tedder and Chris of Blountsville, AL, and Lindsey and Lacey Price. Bonus great-grandchild, Asher Tedder. John is also survived by his baby sister, Alice Winslow of Huntsville, TX, as well as many cousins, nephews, nieces, and dear friends.

John Emmett was born August 21, 1934 in Houston, TX. He was raised in Huntsville, TX by his mother after his father’s death when he was very young. He graduated from Huntsville High School in 1953 where he was class president and an outstanding football tackle for the Hornet Football Team, even earning the recognition of All-State his junior and senior years. He was known as “Bull-John” for his large stature. He earned a football scholarship to Texas A&M and played under Bear Bryant. John eventually transferred to Sam Houston State University earning a Bachelors of Arts in 1959 and later completed a Masters of Education in 1967. During college John attended the Huntsville Church of Christ and met his loving wife after asking her out for a cup of coffee at the Raven Cafe. John and Betty were married on July 18, 1959 at the Groveton Church of Christ.

While a newlywed, John sought out various jobs including Area Manager of Watkins Products in Jefferson County, Trinity County Surveyor and sold World Book Encyclopedias. John began his teaching career at Huntsville ISD and also taught in Beaumont and Groveton. While working as an educator, John was a member of the Texas Army National Guard 49th Armored Division where he served as tank commander and staff sergeant. He was very proud of his time served and kept in touch with many other men from his division throughout his life. He retired from education in 1984 after teaching Industrial Arts at Huntsville High School for 14 years. Never able to stay still, John developed two mobile home parks in his hometown before fully retiring to The Farm in Groveton. During his time at The Farm, John was a volunteer Fireman for the Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department. He loved working his cows, riding his horse, organic gardening, working out, woodworking, leather carving, hunting, and fishing. John’s love for the outdoors was passed down to his children and grandchildren. The Nelson’s devotion to their grandchildren led them to return to Huntsville in 2009.

John had the heart of a servant throughout his life. He preached at Mount Tabor Church of Christ in Madison County, the Church of Christ in Trinity and taught Bible Classes at every congregation where he was a member. He also served as a deacon and an elder at various churches. John was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need; he never met a stranger.

He is to be remembered most for his strong faith in our Heavenly Father.

The family would like to thank MRC Creekside, and Oasis Hospice for their care and service to John.

The family will receive friends from 10:00-11:00 AM on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Huntsville Church of Christ in Huntsville, Texas. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, April 15, 2024 at Huntsville Church of Christ. Interment will follow the service at Oakwood Cemetery in Huntsville, Texas. Services are under the direction of Heritage Oak Funeral Home.