Racy "Budge" Nelson Jr.

Racy Nelson Jr., 88, of Whitmer, WV, passed away on Sunday, December 25, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.  Born on August 2, 1934, he was the son of the late Racy Sr., and Mabel (Swearingen) Nelson. 

Racy, also known as “Budge” or “Buddy O”, proudly served his country in the United States Army. He was a member of the Harman VFW Post #5781, and attended the Whitmer United Methodist Church.   In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, carpentry, and spending time with his friends and his family that he adored. His favorite times of the year were family reunions and every Sunday when his family gathered at his home for dinner. 

He is survived by his companion of 25 years, Eleanor Hedrick; five siblings, Gail Barkley and husband Teddy, Judy Dearborn, Madalin Teter and husband Roy, Brenton Nelson and wife Deborah, Pam White and husband Bob; brother-in-law, Michael “Doc” Bennett; thirteen nieces and nephews, Mike, Karen, Steve, Beth, Roy Brent, Tina, Jeff, Paul, Rebecca, Joni, Brent, Racy and Jessie; a host of great nieces and nephews; great-great nieces and nephews; special extended family members, Amy Armentrout, Betsy Dean, Shirley Mallow, Cheryl Cowin and Terry Hedrick; along with numerous family members and countless friends. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Doris Nelson and Evonne Bennett; a brother-in-law, Murray Dearborn; and three special extended family members, Jimmy Dean, Rick Armentrout and Carol McBee. 

Friends will be received on Friday, December 30, 2022, from 4 to 7 PM at the Whitmer United Methodist Church.  A funeral service will be held at the church on Saturday, December 31, 2022, at 12 PM with Rev. Stella Fay Moyer officiating. Interment will follow at the Laurel Hill Cemetery. The Hinkle-Fenner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Nelson family at this time.