Nelson Fenimore Obituary

Nelson Stewart Fenimore

Johns Island - Stewart passed away peacefully at home on Johns Island, SC, on March 13, 2026.

Stewart was born in Florida on October 30th, 1946, and spent his childhood and adolescence at Clearwater Beach. His father taught him to fish when he was 10 years old and he had his first boat when he turned 12. His love of fishing, boats, and the sea stayed with him all his life. He fished and sailed through many parts of the western hemisphere.

After attending "Ole Miss," he headed north with his good friend, Michael Haigley, and landed on Nantucket Island circa 1968. He commercially fished off the shores of New England, at the same time learning the construction trade. He moved to John's Island, SC in 1989 with his wife, Gretchen and continued to work here and have fun with many new friends. There was an assortment of beloved dogs throughout the years, and he learned to ride on his trusty steed, Elwood, at age 60 with his teacher and friend Deedee Chavis.

He entertained many with his sardonic sense of humor. It was one of his biggest assets and liabilities; as his friends all know! Stew loved music and had an uncanny talent for knowing the lyrics of any song you could think of and then singing to you also. A voracious reader, he had a knowledge of history that would serve him well in any social gathering. He had a way of telling stories with poetic profanity and acerbic humor that made all his friends and relatives laugh, but most especially his wife of 40 years. He had a big heart and was kind, generous, and loved by many.

A private service will be held at a later date. Any condolences can be sent to:

Gretchen Hayes -3983 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Johns Island, SC 29455

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the American Lung Association.

We invite you to share a memory and sign our guest book.