James D. “Jim” Nelson, 68, passed away November 28, 2023 in his home in Weiser, Idaho. He was born on July 24, 1955 in Weiser, Idaho to James R. and Lillie M. Brazeal Nelson. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1973 to 1977. He was stationed in Thailand and then sent to Lubbock, Texas where he met the love of his life, Jane M. Freeman. They married on November 19, 1977. After returning to Idaho, he began his 29-year career in law enforcement. He served as Washington County sheriff from 1996 to 2000. He oversaw the largest drug bust in state history in 1997 in which more than 76,000 marijuana plants were discovered north of Weiser valued at $26 million. He often collaborated with the DEA and FBI. He received recognition from the FBI for his outstanding cooperation, support and commitment during the investigation and prosecution of State of Idaho vs. Eric Brown and Ronald Stiner. He also served in Gem County, worked part-time as an EMT, and was a volunteer fire fighter. Jim was known for his sense of humor, storytelling ability, and expansive knowledge of movies, music, and history. He also loved to camp, hunt, and fish. Jim was preceded in death by his parents James R. and Lillie M. Nelson as well as 4 siblings, Nolan R. Nelson, Doris C. Nelson, Thomas R. Nelson, and Marjorie A. Attebery. He is survived by his wife, Jane Nelson, and children, James Nelson and Stacey (Jose) Martinez as well as his siblings Bobby J. (Cathy) Nelson, Philip D. Nelson, Barbara J. Brown, Wilford A. Nelson, Lorraine (Donald) Hughes and many beloved nieces and nephews. A viewing with be held Thursday, December 7, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Services will be conducted Friday, December 8, 2023 at 10:00 am at Thomason Funeral Home, Weiser and interment at Hillcrest Cemetery. A dinner in memory of Jim will be held at St. Agnes Catholic Church at 12:30 pm.