Ronald John Nelson

He was born on May 13, 1942 in Boston, Mass., and was the son of the late Erik and Dorothy Douthart Nelson.

Ronald received his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from North Eastern University and a PhD from University of Nebraska. He was a professor of English and taught at the University of Nebraska, University of Minnesota and James Madison University. He loved music, art and literature.

He is survived by his wife, Eileen O’Brien Nelson of Harrisonburg; a daughter, Laura Neel of Phoenix, AZ and a sister, Christine Spaulding of New Hampshire.

There will be no services. Burial will be at Forrest Hills Cemetery in Jamaica Plains, Mass., at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA, P. O. Box 413, Harrisonburg, VA 22803.

Lindsey Funeral Home in Harrisonburg is handling arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.lindseyharrisonburgcom.