Emma Belle Nelson

Born on October 24, 1921, in rural Haywood County to the late James Nathaniel and Collice Lay Gordon, her simple upbringing and love of family defined her life. She worked as a billing clerk for Central Service Association, retiring in 1987. She was a member of Aldersgate United Methodist Church for over 80 years, first joining when the congregation was still located at Hays Avenue.

Emma often remarked at the number of changes she had witnessed in her lifetime. She often spoke of riding in a horse-drawn wagon to go to school yet later riding in a jet to go to Hawaii. Emma loved to travel and took many trips during her retirement years with her favorite cousin and close friends. She enjoyed seeing the wonderful sights here in our own country.

She was the loving wife of over 31 years to William Franklin Nelson who preceded her in death in 1982.

She is survived by her three children, Gary Nelson and wife Shirley Nelson of Jackson, TN, Barbara Wood and husband C.W. Wood, Jr. of Jackson, TN, and Beverly Fisher and husband Paul Fisher of Three Way, TN. She is also survived by four grandchildren, Christopher Nelson of Brentwood, TN, Kim Gaggley and husband Richie of Medina, TN, Paula Peftoulidis and husband George of Three Way, TN, and Jason Fisher and wife Gina of Kenosha, WI. She is also survived by six wonderful great grandchildren.

Emma’s love for family and simple wisdom are things her family will carry with them long after her passing.

The family will receive friends and loved ones at a visitation to be held on Friday, June 29, 2018, from 10 am - 12 noon at the North Chapel of George A. Smith and Sons.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, June 29, 2018, at 2 pm at Oak Grove Cemetery at Dukedom, TN.