Randolph Nelson

Randolph Nelson, Sr. an only child, was born to the late T.J. Nelson and Judie Nelson Ashford on December 12, 1929 in Winnsboro, South Carolina. Randy departed this life on January 5, 2003.In 1938, Randy and his family moved to Baltimore, Maryland. He received the Lord and was baptized by the Reverend Melvin C. Green, Sr. of the Christian Community Church of God.Randy was educated in the Baltimore City Public School system and attended Carver High School. In 1948, he began his career in the U.S. Army. After enlisting, he married the former Ella Delores McWilliams of Baltimore, Maryland. God blessed their union with six children. During their 50 years of marriage they were also blessed with six grandchildren and two great grandchildren, who affectionately called him “Poo”. During his military service, Randy traveled around the world with his family. While serving his country in the Korean War, he received the Korean Campaign Medal, the Korean Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Award, the National Defense Medal and a Unit Citation. Also, he received a battlefield commission to Sergeant First Class. Over the years, many lasting relationships continued with his army buddies. Randy retired from the U.S. Army after 20 years of service.Not quite ready for retirement, Randy was employed by the Job Corps and then UPS. He later retired from UPS and began to enjoy his grandchildren. He loved children and would carpool many of the neighborhood children to schools around the city. His grandchildren were always ready to travel with “Poo” no matter what the destination. Randy was an avid sports fan and had closets full of hats and caps. He took pleasure in gospel concerts, pinochle, and westerns. For many years Randy served as President of Spinoza Inc, a thirty-seven year old northwest Baltimore Men’s Club. Randy led the popular group in hosting numerous social and civic events in Baltimore. Prior to his illness, his spiritual life was nurtured by regular attendance at bible study and church services at Rising Sun Baptist Church in east Baltimore. On occasion , he would worship and fellowship at Union Memorial United Methodist Church especially when he knew Randy Jr. would be the soloist.Randy loved the Lord and his family. He took great pleasure in helping others and was well liked by his neighbors. His warm smile will be missed. Randy is survived by his loving wife, Ella; his mother-in-law, Edna; his sons, Randolph, Jr., Reginald and David; his daughters, Patricia, Sheryl and Deborah; his grandchildren, Tyree Sr., Roshaun, Jamel, Ariel, Ayanna and Kira, his great grandchildren Tyree Jr. and Shannon; one uncle, Lonnie and numerous nieces, nephews cousins and beloved friends.

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Randolph Nelson

December 12, 1929 - January 5, 2003