Jerry Wayne Nelson, 73, passed away Tuesday, March 7, 2023, at his home in Pope.

A memorial service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held at Bethel United Methodist Church in Enid, MS on March 25,  at 2 p.m.

Jerry was born Jan. 16, 1950 to the late Tommy “Tuck” Nelson and Maudine “Dean Dean” Burks Nelson in Charleston.

Jerry was blessed with many talents, one of which was the ability to transform a lump of clay into something beautiful. Years ago, he started his own pottery brand – Willow Springs Pottery. The name was chosen from an old family church in Mississippi because he always liked the sound of “Willow Springs.”

Jerry had a huge heart and never met a stranger. He always had kind words or a funny story to share, no matter who you were or from where you came. He loved and cared for animals, whether it was his trusty sidekick, Simba or a stray.

Jerry believed that family didn’t have to be bound by blood. In his heart, his family went beyond his relatives. He considered the gentleman that worked on his pride and joy “Bubba,” and his congregation at Bethel United Methodist Church (to whom he spoke of often and loved dearly) just as much family as blood relatives. “To know him is to love him.”

Jerry had an inner light about him. Just being around him made you want to be a better person. He had many great qualities, but his faith outshined them all! His faith in God was so powerful it helped him through some of the toughest times in his life. He knew that no matter what, God would provide in his own time and how he planned.

A little over a year ago, Jerry moved from North Carolina to his family land where he grew up in Pope. He was elated to be reunited with his brother, David Lee Nelson and his cousins, Bill & Ellen Newton and Connie Newton Toole.  He and his brother, David lived on the land together and had grand plans to revive the land they referred to as “El Rancho Deluxe.” They were so happy being home and together. David passed away 13 days before Jerry. Now, they are truly HOME, at peace and united with their parents.

Jerry always ended a conversation in the same way…. “The BEST to Y’all! Peace & Love, and LORD BLESS ALWAYS!

The family he leaves behind includes:

2 Nieces and 1 Nephew – Robin Willoughby – Madison, Amanda Bowers – Madison, and Greg Nelson – Brandon.

8 Great Nieces and Nephews – Cody Bowers, Gavin Bowers, Lee Nelson, Kolby Thomas, Kameron Stubblefield, Kaley Nelson, Daniel Willoughby, and Erick Willoughby.

5 Great- Great Nieces and Nephews.