Jack Lyman Nelson Jr.

Jack Lyman Nelson Jr., age 79 of Copperas Cove, passed away on the evening of February 7, 2024. A Funeral Mass is scheduled for 11:00 am, Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Holy Family Catholic Church in Copperas Cove, TX. Graveside services are scheduled for 1:00 pm, following the Funeral Mass at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, TX, with United States Marine Honors. A Rosary is scheduled for 10:00 am, Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Holy Family, prior to the Funeral Mass.

Jack Lyman Nelson Jr. was born on January 10, 1945, in Orange, TX to the late Jack L. Sr., and Reba Petty Nelson. At a young age, Jack and his 4 brothers were placed in Boysville in San Antonio, where he resided until he graduated from High School. In 1964 Jack joined the United States Marine Corps and upon completing his basic training he went aboard Ship on deployment. While in the Marine Corps he received The National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device, Vietnam Service Medal w/2 Purple Hearts, Combat Action Ribbon, Rifle Sharpshooter Badge, and Presidential Unit Citation. After becoming one hundred percent disabled, he was discharged from the Military with an Honorable Discharge.

After his military service, Jack moved to Deer Park, TX where he lived and worked until he moved to Copperas Cove, TX in 2001. After moving to Cove, Jack met his loving wife Rita, and through her, he was introduced to the Catholic Church. Jack said, “after he found God, it changed his life”. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and Morning Exchange Club. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Mike, Jim, and Billy Wayne Nelson.

Jack is survived by his wife, Rita Burgess of Copperas Cove; brother, Jerry Nelson and wife, Lou of Tomball, TX; two stepchildren, Tony Anders of Baytown, TX, and Christine Morris of Leander, TX; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He had seven step grandchildren that loved their “Poppy Jack”.

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Holy Family Catholic Church, 1001 Georgetown Rd, Copperas Cove, TX 76522, in memory of Jack Nelson.

Following the graveside service there will be a reception for Jack Nelson Jr., at the Holy Family Catholic Church Social Hall.