Clifford "Cliff" Nelson of Raymond, Mississippi, passed into the heavenly embrace of the Lord on February 22nd, 2024. He was born on March 15, 1943, in Rockmart, Georgia. Cliff embodied numerous roles throughout his life—a reverend, a devoted father, a beloved Papaw, a caring brother, a cherished uncle, and a loving husband. He was a guiding light for all who knew him, especially his beloved family. His unwavering dedication to serving his community and spreading the word of the Lord touched countless lives.

Cliff is survived by his wife, Katherine Nelson; son, Reed Nelson; grandchildren, Jenni (Thomas) Hoey, A.J. Griffing, Jake (Sarah Hogue) Nelson, MacKenzie McMurtray, J.T. Phillips, Maddie Phillips, Kari Keeling, and Kelsie Rice; great-grandchildren, Jane Kratochvil and Graham Vaughn; and nieces and nephews that he loved so dearly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Nelson; his parents, Donald and Loraine Nelson; sons, Scott and James Nelson and Mac McMurtray, daughter-in-law, Jodie Nelson; siblings, Donald Nelson and Deborah Ganzerla; nephew, Chad Stocks; great-granddaughter, Norah Kate Vaughn; and countless other beloved family members and friends.

As a Baptist Minister, Cliff officiated hundreds of weddings, funerals, and baptisms and preached thousands of sermons and Sunday school classes; Cliff's message of love and faith resonated deeply with everyone he encountered. He was a passionate believer who, without fail, did his daily devotions and prayers, constantly seeking further light in the word of the Lord. He embodied the essence of a true Man of God and was an example for many to follow.

He was a proud supporter of Hinds Community College, an institution in which he gladly served for more than 25 years as a vocational-technical counselor, academic counselor, college registrar, director of Admissions and Records, coordinator for Academic Counseling, and director of Counseling, Testing and Disability Support Services. He was recognized with many awards and was selected as one of the 100 People Passionate About Hinds. He held close to so many great friendships with those he worked with.

Cliff was an avid outdoorsman and conservationist. He found solace and divine connection in nature's tranquility, often sharing his passion for hunting and the outdoors with others. His wisdom and mentorship extended beyond the pulpit as he mentored young men, imparting hunting and fishing skills and invaluable life lessons from the shoreline, boat, and deer stand. He often cited that the beauty of the Lord could be best seen in a deer blind.

Cliff's thirst for knowledge was insatiable. A lifelong learner, he constantly sought to deepen his understanding of faith and the world. His intellectual curiosity and humility endeared him to all who crossed his path. With his infectious laughter, warm demeanor, and a resonant, commanding voice that echoed his love and warmth, Cliff had a remarkable ability to forge friendships wherever he went. His legacy of kindness, humor, and wisdom will endure, leaving an indelible mark on all fortunate to know him.

Though we mourn his loss, we take solace in knowing that Cliff's spirit now rests in the embrace of the Divine. Cliff's life will be celebrated on Monday, February 26th, 10 am- 12 pm, with services to follow at First Baptist Church in Raymond.  His memory will forever be cherished, and his teachings will continue to guide and inspire us.

John 3:16                Psalm 23                 Philippians 4:13                Proverbs 3

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, Wounded Warriors, or Tunnel to Towers.