Robert "John" Nelson, Jr., 69, of Rockwall, Texas, embarked on his eternal journey to the Kingdom of Heaven on September 20, 2023. Born on April 19, 1954, in Dallas, Texas, named after his father, he was known as John – or as Johnny in his younger years. He was fortunate to have kept in touch with so many of his childhood friends from Merriman Park in Dallas where he grew up.

John's passing was preceded by his parents, Robert John Nelson, Sr, (Bob), and Geneva Nelson Swope, as well as his brother, William K. Nelson.

John found his ultimate best friend and lifelong companion in his cherished wife, Edie. Their serendipitous meeting took place in 1985 at Chilton Corporation, where Edie was employed, and John was one of the "Memorex guys" there on site. The immediate connection between them ignited a love story for the ages. On September 13, 1986, they sealed their commitment in marriage, recently celebrating an impressive 37 years of devotion. Together they were graced with the most invaluable treasure – a loving family that filled their lives with limitless happiness. Their precious three daughters, Heather Lovell, Amanda Prock, and McKenzie Hammontree brought immense pride and joy to his life. John was undeniably a hands-on dad and embraced fatherhood with unwavering dedication, capturing every cherished moment with his infamous video camera and a perpetual grin from ear to ear.

John counted himself lucky to have landed two of the finest sons-in-law around, Clayton Prock and Austin Hammontree, welcoming them into his extended family with open arms.

Yet, above all, the absolute lights of his life were his five precious grandchildren: Rylan Jace Nelson (14), Kyder Wade Prock (8), William Thomas Lopez (8), Kaisley Layne Prock (2) , and Riley Belle Hammontree (2). His happiest memories were of time spent with them. He rarely missed a sporting event, school program, or basically any activity they were involved in.

John's little sidekicks, Axel (Yorkie), and Stormy (Lilac Siamese), along with Edie's furbabies, Bentley (Morkie), and Cami (Maltipoo), added an extra layer of warmth and companionship to their home.

He is also survived by his sister, RuthAnn Thorne, brother-in-law, Phillip, and nephew, Blake, as well as his sister- in-law, Lori Cox Chapman, and husband, Billy.

John had a love for the great outdoors as he enjoyed hunting and fishing, and just spending time sitting on his deck in the evening watching the sun paint the sky with breathtaking hues, with Edie by his side. His green thumb was well-known as he routinely tended to his yard with care and enjoyed engaging conversations with his neighbors, always quick to express his gratitude for having the best neighbors around. John's remarkable ability to make friends was truly a force of nature, as he never met a stranger.

In celebration of John's extraordinary life, a grand "Celebration of Life" service will be held on Thursday, October 5th, at 3:30pm at Williams Funeral Directors, located at 1600 S. Garland Avenue, Garland, TX 75040. The event promises to be a lively gathering, filled with laughter, shared stories, and fond reminiscences, a fitting tribute to a man who brought joy to everyone he met.

The Nelson family would like to extend a huge heartfelt thanks to the Williams Funeral Directors for their gracious support during this difficult time. Their compassionate care has been a true source of comfort to our family.

John leaves behind a trail of cherished memories and a lasting legacy of love that will be eternally treasured. May his spirit and memory continue to shine brightly in our hearts. It's not goodbye, John, but rather, "see you later!" Until we meet again...