John E. Nelson Sr.

John E. Nelson Sr., 85, died peacefully on Tuesday, July 24, 2012. He was born Nov. 17, 1926, in Kingsport, Tenn. He lived in Florida over 60 years in Jacksonville, Cape Coral and The Villages. After graduating from Gallaudet University, he spent his career serving the deaf community for the state of Florida. He was dearly loved by his family and will be forever missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Debbie Nelson of St. Pete Beach, John Nelson Jr. of Jacksonville and Jeri (Jim) Hawkins of Tampa, along with seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A private service will be held at Oak Hill Memorial Park in Kingsport, Tenn.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Lifepath Hospice, 12973 N. Telecom Parkway, Suite 100, Temple Terrace, FL 33637.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Fort Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, Fort Myers.

Online condolences may be made at www.fortmyersmemorial.com.