Holmes Distler Nelson

Our father, Holmes Distler Nelson entered the pearly gates on January 18, 2024, joining
the love of his life, Bobbie, wife and best friend of sixty years.

Holmes was born at home in West Greenville in the summer of 1929 to Phillip Samuel
and Sarah Distler Nelson. He was the baby of eight children and the last surviving
family member. He was predeceased by his soulmate Barbara “Bobbie” Reaves Nelson
in 2013, his parents, (listed above), and his siblings: John Lewis, Edward Vernon, Paul S.,
Maryland, Mamie, Jack David, and Robert Myles.

A 1946 graduate of Parker High School, Holmes began his career with Southern Bell at
the age of 18. In 1951 he was called to serve his country and stationed in Germany
during the reconstruction of Worms.

Holmes is survived by his girls, Salli “Jake”(Andrew) Troyan, Juliana (Terry) Christy, and
his pride and joy; granddaughter, Juliana-Marie Nelson Troyan, whom he affectionately
named “JAM’.

We miss Papa, but as he often reminded us, don’t stand at my grave and weep, I am not
there, I do not sleep, I am a thousand winds that blow, the diamond glints of snow, the
sunlight on ripened grain, the gentle autumn rain, the swift rush of birds in flight, the
soft star that shines at night.

A private service will be held at Springwood Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to Papa’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
at www.stjude.org/donate or the charity of your choice.

“Grow old along with me, the best is yet to come.”

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