William Ray Nelson

Published 5:22 pm Monday, September 9, 2024

June 2, 1945 – Sept. 7, 2024

Memorial services for William Nelson, 79, of Vidalia will be held at a later date under the direction of Young’s Funeral Home.

Billy was born on Saturday, June 2, 1945, in Shreveport, LA, and passed away on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2024, at his home surrounded by loved ones.

Billy was a proud graduate of Ferriday High School. After graduation, he joined the Army and spent a year stationed in Germany, embracing the adventure of serving his country. Upon his return, he began a 30-year career at International Paper Company, where his dedication and hard work were widely respected. Following his time there, Billy worked for 13 years at Rivers Correctional Facility. Always a man of curiosity and passion, he earned his pilot’s license to explore the world from the skies. In his free time, he loved riding four-wheelers and cheering on his beloved LSU Tigers, never missing a game.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Hazel Nelson; mother, Lorene Massey Howington, and sister, Claudine Thompson.

Billy is survived by his wife of 20 years, Cathy Renfrow Nelson of Vidalia; daughters, Lisa King (Jack) of Wisner, LA, and Jennifer Holly of Vidalia; sons, Bill Nelson Jr. (Carisa) of Walker, LA, and Ryan McClung of Kiln, MS; grandsons, Jonathan Faulkenberry, Karson McClung, Trey Wilson, and Alex Howell; granddaughters, Cambree Nelson, Delanie Diamond, and Jecee King; brothers, Gerry Howington (Mary) of Pineville, LA and Rickey Howington (Anita) of Pine Bluff, AR; sister, Shirley Cater (William) of McGehee, AR; and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.