Billy Ray Nelson

Billy Ray Nelson, Born 6-24-1929, Doddridge, Arkansas, drifted peacefully to eternal life surrounded by his mother, brother, sisters, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-laws, daughter-in-law and numerous other loving family members on Saturday 29, 2012. Billy, otherwise known as Pappy worked at Avondale Shipyards for 29 years ending his career as a Rigging Superintendent. He was diagnosed with Mesothilioma in April, 2011 He made the most of his seventeen months being sure to spend as much time as he could with his family. He is survived by: His son, Cary Coldwell, Sr. and his wife, Sylvia, Kim Nelson Boudreaux and her husband, Danny, Robin Nelson, Star Nelson Breaux and her husband, Kurt, Billie Rae Nelson Jones and her husband, Chuck, His mother, Bessie Belle Erwin Nelson of Calvin, Louisiana, Brother Ronald James Nelson and his wife Barbara, Sisters, Helen Nelson White, Dorothy Nelson Fouche Hamm, Catherine Nelson Jongbloed and her husband Bill, Twelve Grandchildren and twelve Great-Grandchildren and many other loved friends and relatives Billy was preceded in death by: His wife of 50 years and the mother of his children, Gertrude Camille Sanchez Nelson, his father, James Mathis Nelson, and his infant daughter, Jody Marie Nelson.

His children were guided through the last days of his life by Heart of Hospice. Thanks to Ms. Melissa and Ms. Christy. His children would also like to acknowledge their cousin, Samantha Shewmake for her guidance and compassion shown to their dad through her roll as a registered nurse. Also, we would like to thank Mrs. Pamela VanWyck Snodgras, A.K.A as Nappy, a dear and loving family friend for allowing us to focus on our father while she met the needs of family and friends who came to our home to pay respect to our beloved father Billy Nelson. Many thanks, also, to all who delivered nourishment for both our physical and our emotional needs. Services for Mr. Nelson will be at Mothe's Funeral home on Lapalco in Marrero. Times: 5:00 pm for family and 6:00pm til 10:00pm for friends. On Thursday, October 4, 2012, you may visit from 9:00 to 11:00am until a gathering in the chapel. Burial will follow at Westlawn Cemetery in Gretna where he will be re-united with his wife and our mother. Now for a few of his words of wisdom, "you may give out, but don't give up." Billy Ray Nelson, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend. May he rest in peace, Amen.