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Eugene (Gene, E.B.) Baugh Nelson, 77, of Fortson, Georgia, took his last breath at the Columbus Hospice House on September 23, 2023 at 6:25pm. He was greeted by Jesus in heaven. He battled a long, hard fight against pancreatic cancer and always remained positive and optimistic. He was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, father, grandfather, great grandfather, step-grandfather and friend to anyone who met him. He will be missed by all who loved him and leaves a lasting legacy behind.
Eugene B. (Gene, E.B.) Nelson born December 20, 1945 in Harris County, Georgia to Jesse Leon Nelson and Elender Frances Baugh. He is survived by his precious wife of 60+ years Olivia Owen Nelson, his children Cathy Langfitt (Terry) and Andy Nelson (Amy). His grandchildren Hayli Price (James), Drew Nelson Jr., Kassidy Nelson, Olivia Grace Nelson and Zackery Langfitt. Two great grands, Emma and Jackson Price. Three brothers, David (Nelda), Gary (Regina), Steve (Diane). He was predeceased by his parents, brother Jerry and son Michael Eugene Nelson. He is also survived by many other family members (cousins, nephews, nieces, etc.)
He retired from Southern Bell, Bellsouth as a cable repairman with 33+ years of service. He leaves many friends from the company in Dallas, GA and Columbus, GA.
He was a lifelong member of Piney Grove Baptist Church in Fortson, GA where he served in many capacities — deacon, Sunday school teacher and director.
He loved old cars, motor scooters, antiques of any kind and vintage items. He cherished his many friends in the hobby. He lived a happy life through his many hobbies and friends, but the thing that made him happiest was time spent with his family, who he loved dearly!
He also loved old 50s and 60s rock ‘n roll, and vintage country; to include some of his favorites — Jerry Lee Lewis, Roy Orbison, many of the 50s girls groups — The Ronette’s, The Shirelles, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Hank Lochlan, Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn. His 70s favorites from a later era are Alison Krauss and Credence Clearwater Revival.
A committed Christian, he loved God and the Bible. His favorite verse was John 13:34 — a new commandment I give you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you, you also are to love another.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 30 at Piney Grove Baptist Church — 20 GA-315 Fortson, GA 31808. The family will accept visitors beginning at 1:00pm with the service immediately following at 2:00pm. We hope that you can join us in celebrating the wonderful person that he was.
We invite any of EBs hot rod friends to bring their cars to the service in honor of him and his love for classic cars.
In leiu of flowers, we are asking that donations be made to Piney Grove Baptist Church in Fortson, GA to the Eugene Nelson Memorial Fund.
Please make checks payable to the church, with a note in the memo line that it is to go towards the Eugene Nelson Memorial Fund. All donations received will be put towards the building project.
Checks can be mailed to:
Piney Grove Baptist Church
20 GA-315
Fortson, GA 31808
Georgia Cremation of Columbus, Georgia is assisting the family.
Alicia Ray says
Uncle Gene was a sweet, loving, kind man. He will be dearly missed.
Rose & Kenneth Pope says
RIP EB Nelson. He was known as EB at the Phone Co. And was a true friend to all he met. Praying for you Olivia and family.
Pam Carlisle says
Such a faithful and kind man! He loved Jesus and his family. Charlie and I are blessed to have known him! He sure is missed by everyone at Piney Grove, as well as anyone who knew him! We are keeping all of his family in our prayers
Brian Nelson says
Uncle Gene was a big influence in my life growing up and a large part of some of my most fond childhood memories. I’ve always looked up to him like a second father and I will miss him so much. Truly one of the sweetest men I’ve ever known. The world will be a dimmer place without him. Olivia, Andy, Cathy and Family I love you all.
Debbie Jackson says
Kathy I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss of your dad. Our prayers are with your mom and your entire family Just remember to cherish all your memories and time together and one day you all will be together again. Please let me know if you need anything. Our Love Debbie, Johnny and Bradley
Jenny Nelson says
Mr Gene, EB, grandpa, and the only father in law I ever had. I knew you well by all these name titles. Thank you for all the years and memories and for all you and Miss O did for me and the kids all through the years to help us as a family. I truly appreciated the fact you came to mama’s funeral just 6 months ago even though I knew you weren’t really up to it. That meant a lot to me. Who you are and your legacy lives on through my kids and gbabies. Thankful I know where you are and you are no longer in pain. 🙌🏼❤️
Diane Welch Stroud says
I grew up knowing EB. He & my Dad (Pete Welch) worked many long hours together at the phone company. They had a special friendship that went beyond their hours at work. There are so many stories that Daddy has told, & retold, over the years. They’ve never gotten old, & have increased in value with EB’s passing. Each time I saw him, I was greeted with a warm embrace & genuine smile. He was quick witted, & genuinely compassionate. I always enjoyed our Mayberry banter. I will cherish each memory & FB message we shared. To his family, you have my prayers that you will feel the comforting embrace of our Heavenly Father, as you adjust to life here without EB’s physical presence. Rest easy, Goober. The fun girls will see you on the other side. 💝
Penny Thomas says
I feel blessed to have met and given the gift of being one of Mr.Gene”s caregivers.He left a lasting impression on my heart.Prayers to his wonderful wife Ms Olivia and family.