Donald "Bud" Eugene Nelson

Herrin- DONALD BUD EUGENE NELSON, age 72, went to meet his Lord and Savior at 2:42pm on Saturday, May 21st, 2011 after a courageous fight against lung cancer. He was at his home surrounded by his family. Donald was born on February 1, 1939 in Pleasant Mound, Illinois to Ruby Lucille (Swafford) and Clarence Bud Leonard Nelson. He proudly served our country in the Air Force. He worked for several years in new telephone construction and as an over the road truck driver. He had a passion for the outdoors and gardening. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. His greatest joy was his family. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and teaching them new things. He is survived by his loving wife, Judy Nelson of Herrin and children Terry Myers, Tammy Shingleton, both of Pontiac Illinois. Mark and Sherry Taylor of Douglas, GA, Theresa and Mike Brandon of Marion IL and Sandra Judd also of Marion. Brother Elvin and Nancy Nelson of Manteno, IL, sisters Audrey Matthews of Mulberry Grove IL, Melba and Jerry Grotts of Mulberry Grove, IL. Sister in law Joyce Nelson of Gallatin, TN. Grandchildren Cameron Taylor, Stephanie Barrett, Joshua Brandon, Haley Shingleton, Zachary Taylor, Dade Corzine, Annelynn Judd, Taylor Brandon and Elise Judd. Great-grandchildren Joselynn and Brooklynn Brandon. He also had 5 nieces and 4 nephews, brother and sister in law James and Lois Helm of Mt. Carmel IL and several other family members. He is also survived by his dog Rudy, who was his constant companion. He was preceded in death by his parents, his younger brother Larry Nelson, nephew Richard Wayne Nelson, great nephew Jason Kious, grandson Stephen Hastings and triplet great-grandsons that were stillborn. He attended church at Christian Covenant Fellowship in Carterville, Illinois. He was known for his heart of gold and positive outlook on life. He never met a stranger. There will always be a missing piece of our hearts without him, but there is a peace knowing where he is spending eternity. Services will be held at Johnson Hughes Funeral Home on Wednesday, May 25 at 11:00am with Rev. Ralph Brandon officiating. There will be a visitation on Tuesday, May 24th from 5-8pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family.