Richard Joe Nelson's Obituary
Richard Joe Nelson was born on February 13th, 1937, in Tulsa, OK to parents Kenneth and Garnett Nelson. He passed from this life on May 16th, 2026, at the age of 89. Richard was a faithful Christian that accepted Jesus as his Savior and is now in the presence of God.
After residing in Tulsa after birth, his family moved to Kansas and California before returning back to Tulsa. He attended Daniel Webster High School graduating in 1955 and married his classmate Shirley Valentine in 1956. Richard and Shirley had two children Tammy Nelson Larkin and Ricky Nelson. The family attended church regularly and served at Red Fork Assembly of God and then Highland Church of God (now Freedom Life Church of God).
Richard had a long career with several Tulsa auto dealerships, including Bradley Oldsmobile and Dean Bailey Oldsmobile. But most of his employment was at Thomas Cadillac where he finished as the Parts Department Manager. Richard was awarded several trips by General Motors for his work performance, including memorable trips to Italy, Hawaii, and Spain. He also frequently worked on cars for additional income and was a skilled mechanic.
Earlier in life he enjoyed hunting, drag racing, and shooting sports. As Richard aged, he enjoyed serving others where he could. He particularly liked doing yardwork, woodwork, and various handyman projects. His last years were spent faithfully reading his Bible and praying for family and friends. He moved in August 2025 from his longtime residence and finished his days at a senior living facility where he enjoyed interacting with other residents, exercise classes, walking, and playing bingo.
Richard and Shirley had three grandchildren Beth Larkin Shaw, Logan Nelson, and Jake Nelson. Richard was later blessed to spend time with his great grandchildren, but Shirley never met them as she passed away unexpectedly in 2002.
Richard is survived by his daughter Tammy Larkin (husband Dale Larkin), son Ricky Nelson (wife Allyson Nelson), brother Kenny Nelson, sister Carol Ferguson, three grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Valentine Nelson, his father Kenneth Nelson, mother Garnett Nelson, his sister Dorothy Staires, and granddaughter Shauna Larkin.
Memorial contributions can be made to Freedom Life Church of God, 4605 S. Tacoma Avenue Tulsa, OK 74107.
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