In Loving Memory of Lesley Hale Nelson, Our Daddy and Pops

Lesley Hale Nelson was born on December 13, 1943, in Overton, Texas and died peacefully surrounded by his family on September 28, 2026. Our beloved Daddy and Pops was truly the best father in the world. Not only was he a loving father, but he was also a devoted brother, and cherished friend to everyone fortunate enough to know him. His kindness, warmth, and generous spirit touched countless lives, and he will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

He grew up in Vernon, Texas, where he played football and formed some lifelong friendships that remained an important part of his life. Those early years helped shape the man he would become—loyal, hardworking, fun-loving, and deeply devoted to the people he cared about. From Vernon, he went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he graduated before beginning his career with Shell Oil Company, where he built a long and fulfilling professional life.

While he accomplished much throughout his life, his greatest joy and greatest accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his daughters, Kathe Nelson and Kristen Nelson McMillan (Bill), and his son, Jon Nelson, along with his loving twin brother, Wesley Nelson (Janet). He is also survived by many nieces (Kim Hughes Jones (Larry), Kim Nelson Cox (Brian), Pam Nelson Raney (Robert), Kaylynn Raney, Angela Oswald, Parker Nelson) and nephews (Blair Nelson [Heather], James Robert Nelson, Wes Bringham (Carol), Randall Hughes [Sheri], Jake Jones and Morgan Cox) and also leaves behind his many beloved “dog grandchildren,” who brought him endless joy, companionship, and love.

Daddy was loved by everyone who ever met him. He had a way of making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. His love for his family was unwavering, and we feel incredibly blessed to have had him as our father.

The memories we shared, the friendships he treasured, the lessons he taught us, and the love he gave so freely will remain in our hearts forever. We will miss his presence more than words can express, but we will carry his love with us always.

We are so grateful for every moment we were given with him and for the privilege of calling him Daddy and Pops.

He was, and always will be, the best Daddy in the world.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, at 10:00 am at Sullivan Funeral Home Chapel in Vernon, Texas.. Burial will follow at Prairie Point Cemetery in Bazette, Texas under the direction of Sullivan Funeral Home.

Visitation will be Friday, October 9, 2026, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm at Sullivan Funeral Home.