James Nelson Obituary

James "Jay" McIntosh Nelson, 66, passed away peacefully on his boat, Thursday, January 8, 2026.

He was born in Columbia, SC, the son of Mary Alice (Mangum) Nelson and the late Lindsay Rudolph Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lindsay, grandparents, James and Henrietta Mangum and his beloved brother, Carlisle "Rocky" Mills Nelson.

An avid adventurer, Jay spent his time golfing, scuba diving, boating, fishing and being outdoors. He loved the time he spent in Florida, scuba diving with his best friend Cary and taking his family to swim with the manatees in Crystal River. Jay was a lover of animals of all kinds. On more than one occasion he opened his arms and home to animals in need. Jay spent the majority of his life working as a golf course superintendent. He was a hard worker both on and off the course.

Besides his chosen profession, Jay spent much of his time volunteering and giving back to his community. Some of the organizations included Wigs for Cancer, The North Myrtle Beach JROTC and the San Diego Golf Academy. He was the founder of the James W. Mangum Foundation; an annual family golf tournament held in honor of his late grandfather. For twenty-seven years the foundation raised over $250,000.00 for missionary work through the Joy Springs Foundation and donated to the family of fallen police officers.

In addition to his parents and brother, Jay is survived by his daughter, Samantha Nelson, grandsons, Colton Nelson, Cannon Adams, stepson, James Galloway (Suani), granddaughters, Josalyn and Serenity, stepson, Jordan Galloway, stepdaughter, Audralyn Galloway, two grandchildren, Finn and Mila, brother, Rudy Nelson, sister in law, Renee Nelson (Rocky), nieces, Heather Nelson (Travis) and Krista Holder (Zach), nephew, Houston Sauer (Haley) along with several great nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Bold and Beautiful Wigs for Cancer at wigsforcancercharity.com

Funeral services will be 11:00 AM, Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at McMillan-Small Funeral Home.

A graveside committal will follow at 3:00 PM, at Nelson-Skipper Cemetery, 1584 Santee Road, Andrews, SC.

The family will greet friends and family from 9:45 a.m. to 10:50 AM, prior to services.

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