Stanley Ray Nelson

Stanley Ray Nelson was born July 9, 1957, in Rolla, Missouri. He departed this life August 11, 2025, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of sixty-eight years. Stanley was the son of Clyde and Gladys (Thomason) Nelson. He grew up in the St. Louis area until moving to Salem in his teen years. In his early twenties, Stanley relocated to Texas and worked as a lineman for several years. He later came back to Salem and became head of maintenance with Salem Wood Products. Stanley was a proud father. He was blessed with his oldest son Kenneth and to the union of Lori Abt, he gained two bonus children, Amber and Joey. Stanely and Lori were blessed with two daughters, Michelle and Sandra. He was a dedicated family man and loved making memories with his grandchildren. Stanley’s love for nature was always in the center of the activities he loved the most. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He liked to sit at Shawnee Mac Lake and watch the deer and turkey. He loved to camp at Montauk State Park. Stanely truly enjoyed driving the back roads with a cigarette and beer in his hand. Stanley was social and outgoing. He often was found at the American Legion Post 99 and was a proud Shriner. His family and friends were most important to him. Stanley leaves behind his loving children: Kenneth Hanlon of Illinois, Amber Hammack and husband David of Shirley, MA, Joey Zayac and special partner Heather Hinkey of Ozark, MO, Michelle Nelson and special partner Dallas Southards of Salem, MO, and Sandra Nelson and special partner Andrew Gundel of Seligman, MO; brother: Ronald Nelson and wife Marylin of Hillsboro, MO; grandchildren: Savannah Weed, Aryssa Nelson; Ellie Mae, Emma, Edward, and Evie Gundel; and Carter, Krista, Landon, and Luke Hammack; great-granddaughter: Raylee Ann Yates; nephew: Anthony Nelson and wife Julia of St. Louis, MO; extended family and dear friends. Preceding him in death were his parents: Clyde and Gladys Nelson; brother: Eddie Gene Nelson; granny: Bertha Nelson and her husband Roscoe; and his aunt: Maxine Shultz. Stanley was probably the most hard-headed and stubborn person you could meet, but in reality, he had a heart of gold. He will be forever remembered and deeply missed by those who loved him most. Funeral Services for Stanley Ray Nelson was held Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Lyndell Decker officiating. Song selections played were “Daddy’s Hands” and “Go Rest High On That Mountain”. Serving as Pallbearers were Andrew Gundel, Dallas Southards, Layton Southards, Joey Zayac, Scotty Bedwell, Jimmy Conduit, Phil Bussey, and Gary Burrow. Honorary Pallbearers were Scott Leach, Ronald Nelson, and John Mooney. Burial was in the Dry Fork Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Condolences may be left online at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Stanley Ray Nelson

July 9, 1957 - August 11, 2025