“To everything, there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven”- Ecclesiastes 3:1

James Harold Nelson was born in Curtis, AR, to Freeman Nelson, Sr., and Jewellene Lashley on December 1, 1940. James, affectionately known as Sonny, was a 1960 graduate of Peake High School in Arkadelphia, AR.

Sonny was a cool cat! He always had a big smile on his face and wore hats with just about whatever he put on. His infectious smile is what earned him the nickname “Sonny”.  He loved to travel and found himself moving to Chicago after graduation where he lived for many years. He was employed for the City of Chicago in the bridge maintenance department where he retired after over 40 years of dedicated compassion and service. He lived for his family which he loved and will be missed.  

On July 28, 2023, the life of James Harold Nelson came to a close. He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leon Nelson, and Freeman Nelson, Jr.; his only sister, Aljewell Fort; niece, Kindall Fort; nephew, Anthony Fort, and great-nephews, Tyrie Fort, and Kylen McKinney.

He leaves to cherish his memories: his loving niece, Shellie Grice Crenshaw (William);  3 great nieces, Shakieda Crawford (LaDarius), Arneshia Grice, and Archantae Wilson (Kyle); 3 great-great-nieces; 2 great great-nephews; distant nephews, nieces, and a host of cousins and friends.

Visitation will be held Friday, August 11, 2023 at Mitchell Funeral Home in Arkadelphia from 1:00 P.M.- 5:00 P.M. Private burial services will be at Piney Grove Cemetery in Arkadelphia, AR.