William “Bill” Ersie Nelms, 82, of Alexandria, AL, passed away on June 9th, 2021 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born in Locust Fork, Alabama. He was a graduate of Tarrant High School. He attended Florence State College where he began his military service. He was the 302nd solider to be commissioned into the Army at Florence State ROTC. He served in several capacities some of which included his role as Commander of the 31st Support Group Montgomery, AL, Commander of 167th Material Management Center Homewood, AL, duty as a Federalized National Guard assigned to the Selma Montgomery march in 1965, 20th Special Forces Group Pell City, AL, duties in Operation Desert Storm and tours to Panama, Korea, Germany and several stations throughout the United States. He was also President of the Alabama National Guard Association prior to his retirement as a Colonel after 38 plus years of service in the Army. Bill was involved in several other capacities as a result of his love of people and desire to be a role model to the younger generation. He was an avid volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, where he served as a Scoutmaster for several years. He was active with Habitat for Humanity where he enjoyed taking part in the building of many homes in several states. While participating in Habitat for Humanity he maintained his construction business where his love for woodworking and building were shared in many homes and businesses. He was also the manager of the Calhoun County Water Authority for 14 years. Bill is survived by his wife, of over 60 years, Pamelia Whitt Nelms. He leaves behind his loving children, son Ferrell Nelms (Karen) of Alexandria, AL, daughter Malaea Nelms Seleski (Dave) of Asheville, NC, and son Todd Nelms of Florence, AL. He also leaves behind two grandsons, Logan Nelms and Easton Nelms, as well as brother JP Nelms, Myrtle Beach, SC, sister-in-law, Geraldine Whitt Aycock, Decatur, AL, sister-in-law, Marlene Nelms, Highland Lake, AL and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Floyd and Lora Nelms, and his brother, Carroll Nelms. Bill loved his Savior, family, and his country. He had his own special way of doing things, and his goal was to always “do it right.” He was often helping others without anyone being aware. A small private family service will be held. He will be buried with full military honors at the Alabama National Cemetery in Montevallo. In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made to any of the following: University of North Alabama ROTC https://una.edu/rotc/donate-to-rotc.html , Amedysis Hospice at 115 W. Grand Avenue, Suite 70, Rainbow City, AL 35906 or Piedmont Rescue EMS at 122 S. Cedar Avenue, Piedmont, AL 36272.
