Olis D. Nelson

Olis David Nelson, affectionately known as “Jake,” was born March 29, 1933, in Azor, Arkansas to Johnnie David and Eva Mae Nelson. He was preceded in death by his father, Johnnie David, mother, Eva Mae, son, Curtis Stricklin, brothers, Harold D., Herman, Bobbie, William, John, Charles, and Alonzo, sisters, Joyce, Doris, and Loretta.

1933…born the 3rd child, he came into the world like Hercules as he was very muscular, at only 2 months old, he weighed 29 pounds. He graduated from Azor Church school in Arkansas and went on to work full time so that he could help take care of the family. Jake would give his entire paycheck, keeping only “One Quarter”. It made him feel good to care for the household as he was a cheerful giver.

As quoted by his nephew, Chris: “Jake was the hero of many childhood stories. While the world had Hercules and John Henry, we had Uncle Jake: Strong as an ox, but a gentle giant.”

Olis and his older brothers left Arkansas to seek job opportunities. He later met Fannie Stricklin and fathered Kermit, Patricia, Nancy and Curtis. Together, they were parents to Steven. At the dissolve of their marriage, he met his future soulmate.

On July 24, 1976, Olis married the love of his life, Loraine Nelson, they remained married until her passing in 2021. This union shared 50 years of love, marriage, and two daughters, Eva, and Bridgette.

Olis accepted Christ at an early age, and later joined the Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church of Jesus Christ where he remained active until his passing.

Olis was the Patriarch of the family and garnered respect from all. To know him was to love him! The “Gentle Giant” was a protector and extremely big on family, he would not allow anyone to suffer, if they needed something he was always there, whether it was a place to stay, a hot meal, money, or transportation, you name it. He took care of many generations, and was Daddy, Papaw and Uncle Tex to most who encountered him. He truly loved his family, especially his wife and children. Also, he loved watching old western movies, listening to the blues, country, and gospel music, on a good day you would find him softly singing tunes. He loved spending time with family and was a Royals and Chiefs fan!

Olis departed this life on Wednesday, December 13, 2023. He leaves to cherish his memory; son, Steven Nelson, Sr.; daughters, Eva Nichols (Willie), Bridgette Nelson and Marva Walker; step-children, Kermit Stricklin (Ruth), Patricia Glenn (Tony), and Nancy Manning; sisters, Wanda Mae Carter (Curlie), Alvis Conway, and Theresa Pearson (Waymon); brother, Thomas Nelson; grandchildren, Steven Nelson, Jr. Anthony Tabron, Jr., DeAndre Nichols, Marlene Stricklin-Hack, and Sherry Stricklin-Lockhart, great grandson, Aiden Nelson; and a host of other grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.