Howard Nelson Jr.

Dr. Howard Nelson, Jr., a native of Northwest Washington, D.C. and a successful dentist in Kansas City, MO for over seven decades, died February 13, at Armour Oaks senior living residence. On February 11 he successfully reached his goal of living 100 years, on February 12 he heard the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl, and on February 13 he died peacefully at home.

After serving in the U.S. Army in Europe in WW II, Dr. Nelson completed dental school at Howard University and married. After a brief stint practicing in Texas, he, his wife, and young daughter settled in Kansas City, his wife’s hometown, where his son, Howard Nelson III, who would also become a dentist, was born.

Dr. Nelson, whose parents believed that education was essential for their children, was a lifelong activist and agitator for civil rights and against segregation in Kansas City. He wore his lifetime of organizing, demonstrations, agitation, and the occasional arrest with both pride and humility. He was confident that resistance was not a choice but an obligation.

The youngest of four siblings, he was nicknamed “Babe” as an infant, and is still known as Babe or Uncle Babe to most family members and friends and as Doc to many in KC. He was known for his ability to listen intently, choose his words carefully, and speak with elegance, humor, and clarity. A skilled raconteur with a great memory, subtle wit, and beautiful voice, it was a pleasure to listen to him tell stories, share observations, and passionately debate ideas. He was also an incredibly stylish dresser and presented himself with an undeniable and debonaire charm. He represented some of the best of Black men’s regality in a very difficult world, and his poised style will be both honored and missed.

Thanks to all of Dr. Nelson’s friends, family, and the staff at Armour Oaks for their love and care. His physical presence is already missed. May the best of him continue to live on through all who loved him. Condolences to all who knew and cared for him.

His ashes will be interred in Mount Moriah Cemetery in the Garden Mausoleum III.