Temothy Nelson Obituary

The Tes•tem•ony of

Temothy LaShunn Nelson

“For us, this is the end of all stories…But for our loved one, it was only the beginning of the real story. All of his life in this world… had only been the cover and the title page: now, at last, he is beginning Chapter One of the Great Story, which no one on earth has read. It goes on forever, and every chapter is better than the one before.”

The pages of this life began for Temothy L. Nelson in Arkadelphia, Arkansas, on February 9, 1981. He was the bundle of Joy to his mother, the reward of Promise for his father, and the inheritance of love for his family and friends from afar and near.

Temothy accepted God early in his life, and he showed his commitment to God’s love for mankind. Temothy was a proud student of Arkadelphia schools. Peake, Goza, and Arkadelphia High School gave him an opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed as a contributing member of many communities. He was an exceptional graduate of the mighty class of 1999. He was a proud Badger, to say the least. Temothy was an avid athlete, artist, and esteemed youth advocate. Serving as a coach and mentor, Temothy shared his commitment to the humanities. He has supported the Boys and Girls Club of America National organization in several cities.

Temothy enjoyed a life of service. He was a humble servant to many causes. The Excelsior Universal Lodge No.13, PHA, welcomed his devotion to service in the community. Temothy was excited to be a part of community advocacy. Temothy continued his service at Arkansas’s First Liberal Arts institution, Henderson State University. “The School with a Heart.” Temothy had the biggest heart for his “Reddie” Family and the Arkadelphia community. Temothy was very active on campus and throughout the community. Some college men noticed Tem’s good deeds and extended brotherhood from the "Ice Cold" Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. The “Atrocious” Theta Kappa chapter provided a global platform of service. Temothy was awarded the degree of Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a minor in Sociology on August 6, 2004, and Master of Science in Sport Administration on August 3, 2007, to support his Journey for service to mankind.

In his 44th season, the final chapter ended on Tuesday, March 19, 2025. Temothy passed peacefully into the Lord’s embrace. Although our beloved Temothy is no longer with us in body, his legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who were impacted by the loving life he lived. His father, Temothy Ray Nelson, preceded him in death on October 23, 2006. 

Because love is far greater than death, his love will continue to live in the hearts of his Family: The princess of his kingdom, Soleil Marie Nelson; His mother, Elaine Cook Buckley; His grandmother (Ester Louise Perry); His beloved sister, Soleil Nelson Harden (Byron); Three devoted brothers, Damien Nelson, Tory Buckley (Leslie), Bruce Buckley; Uncles – Marvin Miller, and Stanly Arnold; Aunts – Vera Lou* and the sweet Baby Sis, Shonna Person, Nephews, Joshua and Jackson Jack Jack Buckley; An Army of cousins he held to a standard of brother and sisters, His special god-child, Bianca Hughes and countless friends.

Submitted by the Nelson Family.