Ray Paul Nelson, 91, of Charleston, South Carolina, husband of the late Sally Anne Nelson, entered into eternal rest Sunday, February 15, 2026. His Memorial Service will be held Monday, March 9, 2026 in the J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel, 3360 Glenn McConnell Parkway at 12:00 pm.

Ray was born August 27, 1934 in Brockton, Massachusetts, son of the late Dale Martin Nelson and Evelyn Dewey Robinson Nelson. Ray was an avid golfer, with an impressive number of holes-in-one (6), and was thrilled when he scored his age on his 90th birthday. Over his lifetime Ray enjoyed fishing, skiing, and traveling. He took multiple cross-country trips and several cruises with his wife. After moving to Florida, and later South Carolina, he remained a devoted Red Sox, Bruins and Patriots fan.

He served 4 years in the Navy as a sheet metal worker on the USS Sanborn. He worked at a number of different positions until he became a member of the Teamsters’ Union, driving UPS delivery trucks and tractor trailers. After retirement, he continued to work at roles inspired by his hobbies. He had a lobster fishing business in Plymouth, MA, worked at several golf courses, and turned his love of fishing into a small business, collecting and selling fishing lures on eBay. Ray had a talent for fixing things, and enjoyed helping friends and family.

Ray was a regular blood donor. At the age of 88, he began donating platelets. Over the course of his life he donated over 5 gallons of blood and 30 units of platelets.

He is survived by two daughters, Debra Sarvis (Glen), Ellen Welch (Greg); six grandchildren, Margaret Sarvis Colburn, Abigail O'Quinn (Matt), Stephen Welch (Karin), Tyler Nelson (Erin), Travis Nelson, and Arianna Nelson; and nine great-grandchildren. Ray, the youngest of eight siblings, is also survived by his older brother Richard Nelson (Betty).

In addition to his wife of almost 70 years, he was preceded in death by 4 sisters, 2 brothers; and son Paul.

Memorials may be made to Roper Hospice, 8536 Palmetto Commerce Parkway, Suite 207A, Larson, SC 29456

Please consider donating blood or platelets to continue his legacy of service.