Billy Don Nelson

February 23, 1949 - January 4, 2019

Billy Don Nelson, longtime Poetry resident, passed away peacefully on the evening of Jan. 4, 2019 at his home, surrounded by his family. Billy was born Feb. 23, 1949 to George and Bonnie Bell Nelson, both of whom preceded him in death along with brothers, Gary and David Wayne Nelson and sister Fay Nell Brace. Billy worked with Kaufman County Pct. 3 as a transportation director and driver until his retirement in 2012. He loved being outdoors and he treasured the time spent with his family. Gardening was a way for Billy to relax and the land around his house was filled with the plants and flowers that gave him so much joy. He enjoyed playing the Texas Lottery and planning get-togethers with friends and family. His smile and lively personality will be missed by all who knew him. Billy is survived by his wife, Mary Nelson of Poetry; sons: Donnie Nelson and wife, Kristi, of Poetry, Roger Nelson and wife, Melanie, of Canton; daughters: Janie Smith and husband, Ken, of Wills Point, Sherry Rogers and husband, Steve, of Penelope, TX, and Shelly Lee Morel of Wills Point; grandchildren: Jay Nelson and wife, Teresa, Allen Nelson and wife, Shae, Dillon Nelson, Kaitlynn Nelson, Aaron Nelson, Jonathan Nelson, Brandi Dlabaj, Justin Dlabaj, Talli Dlabaj, Angel Hogan, Joshua Stevens, Julia Stevens, Jesse Stevens, Conner Smith, Justin Lee Snider, Brendon Rose, Trey Hollman, Katie Lee Ann Climer, Tony Climer; great grandchildren: Madi Nelson, Olivia Nelson, Alli Nelson, Aiden Nelson, Savanna Nelson, Xavier Snider; sisters: Margaret Angell and husband, Billy, Shirley Staats, Darlene Potts and husband, Ricky as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and a host of friends. Funeral service for Billy Don Nelson will be 1 pm Wednesday January 9, 2019 at Max Slayton Funerals and Cremations with interment to follow at Campground Cemetery. Family will receive friends at 12 noon until service time.