Obituaries

Julia Irene Nelson, 95, entered her eternal rest Saturday, July 19, 2025, in Rocky Mount, Virginia. She was born June 24, 1930, in Frankin County, Virginia, to the late Fletcher Lloyd Matherly and Bessie Irene Hodges Matherly.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John Donald “J.D.” Nelson, her son, James Donald “Donnie” Nelson; sisters, Mary Elizabeth Younce, Fairy Shively, Joan “Joann” Carter, Virginia Foley, Lucy Morris; and brothers, Lewhy Matherly, Posey “Dot” Matherly, George Thomas “G.T.” Matherly, Robert Lee Matherly, and James Irvin “Jimmy” Matherly.

Julia was of the Christian faith and a member of Fieldale Baptist Church. When reflecting on her beautiful life, there is no doubt that she will always be remembered as one who gave more than she received. She lived a selfless life full of love for others, pouring her heart and soul into her children and grandchildren. Those left behind will forever be impacted by her sweet personality and her ability to live in a state of gratitude, never complaining about anything.

Those left to cherish her memory are her daughter, Carol Lopez (Sebastian “Taty”); sons, Johnny Nelson (Birgit), Tommy Nelson (Terri), Cecil Nelson (Becky), Fred Nelson (Judy), Ricky Nelson (Marti); sister, Betty Jane East; grandchildren, Sebastian Lopez, Jr., Donald Ray Lopez (Selah), Melissa Harper (Louis), Matthew Wade Nelson (Ambi), John Kevin Nelson (Chrissy), Megan Nelson Sharpe (Frank), Carly Jordan Nelson, Erin Elizabeth Nelson, Gracie Leigh Nelson; great-grandchildren, Kyndall Nelson, Peyton Schooler, Noah Harper, Sean Harper, Lorna Harper, Declan Nelson, Nathan Nelson, Alorah Nelson, McKenzie Lopez, Deegan Lopez; numerous nieces and nephews.

Although a private graveside service will be held, the family wishes to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support shown during this difficult time.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family.