Elis Nelson Obituary

Elis Curtis Nelson (affectionately known as 'E.C.') was born August 5, 1939, in Columbia, South Carolina, the beloved son of the late Lois Jefferson. He was reared to adulthood by his mother and the late Elis Nelson, whose name he took. After a lengthy illness, he completed this earthly journey on Thursday, September 11, 2025, at The Heritage at Lowman in Chapin, South Carolina. E. C. as he was affectionately called by family and friends, was educated in the Public Schools of Richland County where he was a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School in Columbia, SC. Mr. Nelson was a long-time member of Zion Pilgrim Baptist Church, Hopkins, South Carolina. Elis was united in Holy Matrimony to the former Leanner Jackson with whom he shared sixty-six (66) years of love and devotion, and to their union seven children were born, Tony, Jerry, Larry, Wanda, Tone, and twins who preceded him in death. Elis was dedicated when it came to working to provide for his family, as well as working within the Community. He retired after more than twenty years of service as a track inspector with CSX Railroad. He was an avid Entrepreneur who owned and operated several businesses including working as a D. J., owning a Gas Station, merchandise vendor, and owner operator of Soul Kitchen Food Truck. He founded the Lower Community Crime Watch in 1996 and served faithfully until he was no longer able to serve. He received numerous awards and certificates for his dedication to community involvement. In addition to his parents and infant twins, he was also preceded in death by his brothers, John Gallman and Melvin Jefferson; and sisters, Ruby Glen and Thelma Smith. He is survived by his loving wife, Leanner Jackson Nelson; four sons, Curtis Antonio (Althea) of Columbia, SC , Jerry, Larry (Deborah), Tyrone (Annette), all of Hopkins, SC; daughter, Wanda Smith of Hopkins, SC; seventeen (17) grandchildren; thirty (30) great grandchildren; three (3) great-great grandchildren, and host of other loving relatives and dear friends, all of whom will miss his presence. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Elis C. Nelson, please visit our floral store.