Mr. Nelson Lee Gordon was born on February 6, 1946, in Limestone County to the late John Gordon and Lillie Love Gordon. At the age of 78, he peacefully departed this life on Friday, November 29, 2024, at 11:33 a.m.
Nelson was a proud graduate of Trinity High School Class of 1966, where he built the foundation of life characterized by hard work and integrity. He attended many of his subsequent class reunions and maintained close friendships with his classmates.
At an early age, Nelson confessed hope in Christ and joined fellowship with New Hope Cumberland Church. He was a devoted servant of the Lord, often seen sharing a warm smile, giving out candy and fellowshipping with friends and family after services. Nelson’s love for his church community was evident by the 10 years spent volunteering to maintain the lawn of the New Hope cemetery #1, ensuring the grounds were always presentable and well maintained. Nelson’s selfless acts of kindness and unwavering faith will always be remembered as a testament to his extremely generous and loving spirit.
On life’s journey, Nelson found his greatest joy in family starting with his loving and devoted wife, Ernestine Cartwright Gordon. They united in Holy Matrimony on July 16, 1966 and shared 58 years filled with love, laughter and an unshakeable bond that served as an inspiration to those that knew them. Nelson was also a devoted father to his children, Monique and Manita, who were the light of his life. His days were also brighten by the companionship of his beloved pet, Gordy.
Nelson dedicated many years of his career to Dunlap Tire Company, where he retired after 26 years as a skilled Treadmill and Bead operator, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues. After retiring, you could find him working on cars and lawn mowers, strolling down the neighborhood streets on his golf cart, delivering care packages and food (his favorite Birmingham’s finest watermelons).
Nelson will be remembered for his warm heart, mesmerizing smile and quick-witted humor. He had an effortless way of making people feel at ease and there was never a dull moment. Despite health challenges, Nelson leaned on his faith and continued to move forward with strength and fierce determination. He enjoyed engaging in conversations about faith, respectfully debating political events and cheering on his favorite team, Pittsburg Steelers.
Whether through Nelson’s commitment to work, love for family or willingness to lend a helping hand, he left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Nelson leaves behind to cherish his memory a loving and devoted wife: Ernestine C. Gordon; beloved daughters: Monique Lee Gordon (Roosevelt) of Madison, AL and Manita Gordon-Hurt (Damean) of San Diego, CA; three loving sisters: Diane Manning of Cordova, TN, Mimie Gordon of Cleveland, OH and Shirley Perinchief of Houston, TX; four supportive brothers: Leonard Gordon of Decatur, AL, Maurice Gordon (Gail) of Madison, AL and Kirk Gordon of Limestone and Henry Gordon of Huntsville, AL; sisters in laws: Elnora “Cooky” Cartwright and Cleo Ellison; caring nurse and friend, Reita Romans; close-lifelong friends: A.J. Collier and Richard Love. brotherly neighbors: Eric Tibeau, John Durham and Jerry Osmundson; and a host of nieces, nephews and loved ones.
Funeral service will be 11:00 a.m., Saturday, December 7, 2024 at the New Hope Cumberland Presbyterian Church in America (28520 Wall Street, Madison, AL 35756) with Pastor Burgess Ewing as officiant and Reverend Columbus Waddle as eulogist. Interment will be in the New Hope Community Cemetery # 2. Mr. Gordon will lie in repose one hour prior to funeral time.
Public viewing will be held from 12:30 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., Friday, December 6, 2024 and 8:30 a.m. until 9:00 a.m., Saturday, December 7, 2024 at the Royal Funeral Home.
