George Ira Nelson, Sr

     George Ira Nelson, Sr, of De Kalb, Mississippi passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of November 20, 2023, at his home surrounded by his loved ones.

     George was born to John Peter and Helen Martha (Slaymaker) Nelson on February 22, 1939, in Cordova, Illinois.  George and his family soon became residents of Macon, Mississippi.  After graduating high school, George enlisted in the United States Navy where he faithfully served his country for many years.  He earned many commendations during his term including, the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Air Gallantry Cross, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal just to name a few.  After being honorably discharged upon serving his time, George attended Cosmetology School, graduating as a licensed barber.

     George met his bride of 63 wonderful years, Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Waddell, in Macon.  Kathy recalls affectionately how George was “great at most anything” and “loved to cook and to cut hair”.  George soon gained the nickname “Pappy”, once their grandchildren were born.  His son, George, Jr, fondly remembers his dad’s motto to live by, “if you’re going to do something, do it right.”  After Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, like so many others, George and his family went to volunteer to help clear debris by cutting wood and bulldozing.

      George is survived by his wife, Mary Kathryn (Kathy) Nelson; son, George Ira Nelson, Jr; daughter, Penny Elaine Trayal (Keith); brother, Mike Nelson; sister, Mary Stribling; six grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

     He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bill and Henry Nelson; and sisters, Anna Mae Edwards and Martha White.

     Graveside services will be held Monday, November 27, 2023, at New Hope Church Cemetery located on Old Jackson Road in De Kalb, Mississippi.

     The staff at Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-Dekalb are grateful for the opportunity to honor George, his memory, and his wonderful family.