Earlee Nelson transitioned peacefully on August 29, 2024, in Colorado Springs, CO. Born in Pine Bluff, AR, January 23, 1950, to the late Earlean and Georgia Mae (Thomas) Nelson. Earlee was a veteran and family man.

Earlee graduated from The Rayen School in Youngstown and attended Youngstown State University. He joined the United States Army, and later transferred to the United States Air Force Reserves until his retirement in 2005. With a heart full of devotion, Mr. Nelson served his country with great distinction.

His unwavering commitment to duty and service exemplified his character, earning the admiration and respect of all who had the privilege of knowing him. While in the Army he served in Greece during the Vietnam War. As a member of the USAFR he supported Operation Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom.

In his civilian life, Mr. Nelson continued his dedication to public service. His contributions to his community and country did not go unnoticed, leaving a lasting impact on all those he encountered. Earlee worked as a civil service employee at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, Odyssey Systems, and El Paso County Elections.

As a God-fearing man, Earlee attended King Solomon Baptist Church, Colorado Springs. He loved family, friends, traveling, and other leisure activities. Earl was a stable role model who maintained a healthy relationship with his daughters and grandchildren. He accompanied them to every activity they aspired to actively participate in.

Through the years Earlee maintained contact with family and friends via letters, cards, emails, & phone calls. When traveling or visiting family, friends, different cities, states, or countries for vacation, Earlee always had his camera & enjoyed capturing his journeys through pictures.

Earlee leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 52 years, Paula N. (Bennett) Nelson of Colorado Springs and loving daughters, Eunice Nelson of Colorado Springs, and Evonne Nelson-Smith (Darryl) of Jacksonville, FL.

Earlee will be fondly remembered by his sister Sandra Stringer (Anthony) of Blue Springs, MO. and brother Sylvester Nelson (LaDonna) of Youngstown.

The legacy of Earlee will be emboldened for generations to come with his four grandchildren D'Evonne, Marquis, Derrick Jr., and Kiara; one great-grandchild (Ashira), as well a score of s nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and friends.

Earlee was preceded in death by his father Earlean Nelson; mother Georgia Mae (Thomas) Nelson; and sister, Freddie Mae (Nelson) Cheirs.

Earlee Nelson was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who will be deeply missed. The Nelson family invites the community to share in the 10am Celebration of Life Services for Earlee on Saturday September 21, 2024, at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 707 Tabernacle Blvd., with Pastor Raymond Austin serving as the celebrant.

The committal ceremonies will take place at Tod Homestead Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Ave, at the site of his final resting place, The interment will be conducted with full military honors, paying tribute to his service and sacrifice to his country. In the quiet moments of reflection, may we remember Mr. Nelson’s legacy of service and honor, his kindness and dedication.

At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the beloved family of Earlee Nelson elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown OH 330.782.8500