Boyd Eastham Nelson III

Boyd Eastham Nelson III, 51, of Tampa, Florida, passed away on Wednesday, July 27 after suffering a sudden cardiac event while snorkeling in the Florida Keys. He leaves a legacy of two sons, Boyd Evan IV and Chase Matthew, who were his pride and joy.

Boyd was born in Long Beach, California, to Dr. Boyd E. Nelson II and Constance Lazenby Nelson. He grew up in Decatur, Illinois, with two older sisters, Connie Nelson Moler and Wendy Nelson Frantz. He attended the University of Missouri-Columbia where he was a proud member of Delta Tau Delta, graduating in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in corporate finance and real estate. He then went to law school at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, receiving his Juris Doctor degree in 1996 before moving to Tampa.

For nearly 30 years, Boyd worked for Raymond James Trust N.A. where he was well-known within the estate and financial planning community. He dedicated the last year of his professional career to building his own practice focusing on estate and trust law.

Outside of work, Boyd had a zest for life and adventure. A true Floridian at heart, he was an avid boater with a Margaritaville state of mind. With a smile and charismatic personality that would light up any room, Boyd lived every day to the fullest. His life encompassed many joys, the greatest of which were his two sons he lovingly shared with Rachel Fayman Nelson.

Boyd was a beloved father, son, brother, nephew, cousin and uncle, and was an instant friend to those who had the good fortune to meet him. He had a passion for good times with great friends who, in that spirit, will gather near the occasion of his birthday for a joyful celebration of his incredible life.

Boyd was larger than life; his shoes cannot be filled (literally as well as metaphorically). May he rest in peace knowing his children will be surrounded by loving family and dear friends who will guide them to reach their full potential.