Rev. Edward J Nelson

March 24, 1944 - May 22, 2024

Rev. Edward J. Nelson, 80, of West Monroe, passed away on May 22, 2024. He was born on March 24, 1944 in Biscoe, Arkansas to Clarence Nelson and Martha Thomas Nelson.

Edward felt his call to the ministry at a young age of eleven years old. In 1961, he left home to go to Tupelo, MS to attend Pentecostal Bible Institute. In 1962, he met the love of his life, Ruth Ann Head and on June 22, 1963 they were married in West Monroe, Louisiana. It was a decision that they love one another “until death do us part”.

Edward pastored his first church in South Haven, Michigan and moved on to Joplin, Missouri and Hamburg, Arkansas. He loved traveling with his family and grandson, Zack. His hobbies were golfing, fishing, hunting and snow skiing. Edward was so excited when he overcame the fear of flying by learning to fly. Edward received his pilot’s license and purchased his own airplane. Ruth enjoyed flying with him. Edward was a member of the Apostolic Restoration Church in West Monroe, Louisiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Nelson and Martha Thomas Tate; and two brothers, Donald Nelson and Marvin Ray.

Words from Zachary, “I remember him enjoying hunting and fishing when I was child. Golf one of his greatest passions, and playing chess with his friend at the country club. (It had the best grilled cheeses). Ski trips with his family, and traveling in general. Some of my best memories are road trips in the suburban. I wouldn’t have been able to see half the places I’ve seen if it wasn’t for my grandparents, and my grandfather instilled in me a desire to travel and experience as much of this life as I can. His love and his teachings stay with me everyday, and guide me forward in life. His legacy will live through us and his memory will be cherished in my heart for as long as I live.”

Edward is survived by his wife, Ruth Head Nelson; two sons, Timothy Edward Nelson and Jason Scott Nelson; grandson, Zachary Nelson; siblings, Brenda Middleton (Steve), Jimmy Ray (Lori), Joyce Borowski (Rich), Kathy Ray, Bobby Tate, Barbara Johnson; and many nieces, nephews and other cherished family and friends.

The family will have a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Rev. Edward J. Nelson, 80, of West Monroe, passed away on May 22, 2024. He was born on March 24, 1944 in Biscoe, Arkansas to Clarence Nelson and Martha Thomas Nelson. Edward felt his call to the ministry at a young age of eleven years old. In 1961, he left home to go to Tupelo,Continue Reading

See Condolences

Ruth, Paulla and I were so sorry to hear about the passing of Ed. We have many memories of you all when I came to West Monroe in 1970 and Paulla joined me in February of 1971. We appreciated the ministry of Ed and the lives that you all impacted through the years. We love you and we’re praying for you and all the family. Mark and Paulla Foster

Ruth Ann, so sorry to hear about Ed. I recall y’all holding a revival in Eros when you first started evangelizing. I will be praying for God to grant you and your family comfort and peace for the days ahead!

I am so heartbroken by this!! Sis Nelson I am so sorry for yalls loss and I will be praying for y’all! He was a good man and I have always looked up to him and admired his dedication to god! I have so many sweet wonderful memories of him as my pastor as a kid! He taught me a lot about God! He will be missed by so many!! Rip Bro. Nelson

Pete & I are so sad to hear about the passing of our long-time friend, Ed. Ruth Ann, our love and prayers are with you and your family.

Pastor Nelson was our pastor in South Haven. Because of him. Thousands have cane to this beautiful Acts 2:38 message. He redeemed us. Though our ministry, souls around the world are save . 5 missionary are out of our church. We have started 5 churches. All because of a man named Revered Edward Nelson! Pastor, I love you and will forever be grateful! Rest well my dear friend!

Peace of mind is a call away. We're here when you need us most.

I’m so sorry about Ed. His brother Donald was a friend when I was young. I was married to Val Brown of Augusta whose uncle OJ Ward wad married to Ed And Donald’s sister. Prayers for this family

I know you are in a better place. I will always remember you because you were the one who persuaded me to give church another try after almost 20 years while we were standing beside my broken down car in front of the church you Pastored. You also have one of the sweetest wives I have ever met. Always had a good attitude and was never anything but kind! But, I guess you knew that. Will see you on the other side Brother Nelson!

Ruth Ann was so sorry to hear about Ed. Remembering the good times we had together and our trips together. Sending love, hugs, and prayers to you the boys and the rest of your family

I was so sad to receive the news that Bro. Ed had passed away, but know that he’s in a better place, free of pain and suffering. I have fond memories of him bowling and enjoying the fellowship of everyone around him. Keeping Sister Ruth and his family in my thoughts and prayers.

My condolences. A good man and a good friend. Proud that he trusted me to be his dentist. He is with God now.

So sorry to hear this. Sister Nelson just know that we’re praying for you and the boys. Yall have helped so many people so his rewards are coming! Bro Stan & Sis Pam

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.