James Folsom Nelson, 83, died Sept. 11, 2018, at the Florence Hand Home in LaGrange, Georgia. A native of Eatonton, Georgia, Mr. Nelson was born Feb. 3, 1935, to the late Robert E. Nelson, Sr and Julia Folsom Nelson. He is survived by his brother Robert E. Nelson, Jr. of Columbus, Georgia; a niece, Linda Marie Nelson of Edenborough, Scotland; nephew, Michael J. Nelson of Atlanta, Georgia and a nephew John W. Nelson of Athens, Georgia.

Mr. Nelson graduated as valedictorian of Putnam County High School, class of 1953 and received his undergraduate degree from Mercer University. He also did post graduate work at the University of Denver and the University of Georgia.  Mr. Nelson spent most of his adult life teaching and studying.

Mr. Nelson was a member of Eatonton First United Methodist Church for most of his life. He taught the Robinson-Dance Sunday school class for many years and served as choir director and organist. In 1983, he was called into the ministry and pastored two churches in LaGrange until failing health caused him to retire.

Funeral services will be held graveside at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Eatonton, Georgia, on Sept. 23, 2018, at 3 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Jessica E. Terrell officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.

Those wishing to share a condolence or remembrance with the family may do so by visiting Shlagrange.com.

Arrangements are by Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 1010 Mooty Bridge Road, LaGrange, GA 30240 (706) 884-8636