Lyle Kent Nelson was born on March 31, 1937, to Willis Nelson and Mary McIntire in South Bend, IN. After graduating from High School in 1955, Kent went on to serve in the United States Airforce for four years, honorably discharged in 1959 as an E4 Senior Airman. After his discharge, Kent attended Indiana University before beginning his business career. He worked in the food service industry most of his career, while raising his family with Cecile until his retirement as a Regional Business Manager from the Thomas J. Lipton Company in 1997. After retirement from Lipton, Kent went on to work as a consultant in the Food Service Industry, continuing to work with former colleagues as a respected leader and mentor. Ultimately finishing his career after several successful consulting projects and retiring to Grayson, GA.
In 1962, He married the love of his life, Cecile M. Nelson, going on to have five children, Ann, Stephen, Mary, Patricia and Matt. Kent and Cecile were married for 60 years before Cecile preceded Kent in death in 2023. Kent dedicated his life to the wellbeing of his family. He was a devoted husband and committed Father, tirelessly working to provide for his family. Kent loved vacationing with his family. Cataloging many miles behind the wheel of the family station wagon, driving everyone to the mountains, beach and family get togethers wherever the location. You could also find Kent on the golf course honing his skills and sporting fashionable golf attire…the pants, way ahead of His time!
Whether it was supporting his family by working diligently as a successful career Commercial Business Manager or attending his Children’s ballgames in a suit and tie, dragging his suitcase into the stands to watch the game and provide robust commentary on the officiating, Kent showed up. Diligence and commitment come to mind for many of us that knew him well.
Kent was a loyal and understanding man, Patriotic and keenly interested in the wellbeing of his family and friends. He often made himself available to many younger men starting families and careers to share his perspective and offer advice. Sincerely interested in “what was cooking” and always willing to take your phone call and listen. For those of us that were fortunate enough to enjoy one of his Sunday dinners…whether it was Spatini red sauce or a masterpiece from his Weber Kettle charcoal grill, always delicious.
Kent was preceded in death by his wife Cecile, parents Willis and Mary, his brother Bill, and Sister Linda. He is survived by his children and their respective spouses Ann and Darrell David, Stephen and Miriam Nelson, Mary and Darryl Bowling, Patricia and Perry Worsham and Matt, as well as his brother Fred Nelson along with 12 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
A funeral mass will occur Monday September 9, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Oliver Plunket Catholic Church, 3200 Brooks Dr SW, Snellville, GA 30078. In lieu of Flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy consider donating to a local organization supporting Alzheimer’s care.
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