Dennis Ray Nelson, Sr. was born to the late Ozell and Buster Nelson on December 1st, 1950, in Belgrade, Texas.

Dennis Ray was a graduate of Newton High School in 1970. He went on to proudly serve his country in the United States Army.

He later met and married the love of his life, Shirley Nelson. The two would raise six children, Marvin Ervin, Derk Ervin, Frederick Ervin, Shontaye Armstrong (Lawrence), Catrice Nelson, and Dennis Ray Nelson, Jr.

Dennis was preceded in death by his mother, Ozell; stepfather, Albert; brother, Sylvester; son, Dennis, Jr.; and grandson, Stephon.

Dennis was a hard worker. He worked for Newton Lumber Company for many years as a lumber grader, and later retired from Weirgate Lumber. Dennis remained active in his retirement. He loved raising dogs, fishing, and spending time with his family, especially hanging in the yard with his "boys."

Dennis leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Shirley Nelson; daughters, Shontaye Armstrong (Lawrence) and Catrice Nelson; sons, Marvin, Derk, Frederick; brother, Edward Nelson (Diane) of Clearlake, TX; sisters, Ruby Thomas of Newton, TX, and Barbara Teceno of Lake Charles, LA; twenty-six grandkids; fourteen great-grandkids; and a host of nieces and nephews.