Samuel Orville Nelson, forenamed Ethan, was born to the late Derrick (Cyril) Nelson and Violet Williams on January 4, 1944, in the district of Paradise, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, W.I. He was the 2nd of 8 children in the union. On September 11, 1977, he married the love of his life, Alma Nelson. Soon thereafter, he migrated to the United States of America to join her in New Jersey.

He received his early education at Carisbrook Primary School, St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. While working, he furthered his secondary/higher education at St. Andrew Technical High School in Jamaica, W.I. As a child, under his father's apprenticeship, he developed his carpentry and joinery skills. Although he never made carpentry or joinery his career, he had a great passion and love for these skills. He would spend hours in his workshop crafting sturdy furniture for family, friends, and himself.

His last job was with the DeKalb County Roads and Drainage Department, where he worked for over 10 years.

Samuel enjoyed singing, and in his younger years, he sang with a group named The Scatter Light and later in the men's choir at his church. Some memorable moments included numerous road trips he took to spend time with family and friends, as well as his annual trips to SDA conferences.

Samuel lived a life centered in his faith in God. He was a member of the First Lithonia SDA, a devoted Christian and a faithful servant. He was knowledgeable about the gospel and an avid reader of the Bible and Christian literature. He could quote scriptures and hold long theological debates. He was a friendly and jovial person, and nothing bothered him except contradictions to his faith. He was always ready to defend his faith and beliefs.

Samuel was a devoted husband and father. He departed this life on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at home, peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was preceded in death by his parents, four (4) brothers, and four (4) sisters.

He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife- Alma Nelson, son-Samuel Nelson Jr, brothers (Everton of New York, Trevor and Ricky of Jamaica W.I), sisters (Nalda of Ohio, Avril, Andrea (Andy), Lorna of New York, Grace of Georgia, Marlene, Kayla of Jamaica W.I, and Fay of England), many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lots of friends. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

Acknowledgment: 

The family of the late Samuel (Ethan) Nelson wishes to express their deepest gratitude for all acts of kindness, comforting words, prayers, love, and support shown during our time of bereavement. Your presence and kind thoughts meant the world to us. May God bless you.