Jerry Wayne Nelson, 76, of Lebanon, Missouri, passed away Sunday, November 1, 2026, in Lebanon, Missouri.
He was born October 10, 1950, in Lebanon, Missouri to Ernest Virgil and Wilmogene (McGuire) Nelson.
On October 24, 1969, he was united in marriage to Kathleen Gayle “Kathy’’ Mustard.
Jerry worked at Detroit Tool for over thirty-five years. He then worked at Quality RV and later at the Laclede County Courthouse in maintenance. Most recently, he worked with Greg Cheek remodeling homes. He loved photography and for many years, when his children were young, worked with one of his dearest friends, Roger Fisher, at Phast Photo. They also took pictures at the race track. Jerry was a talented musician and in the 70’s was part of the band, “Midnight Express.” Music was something that he and his sons enjoyed together, as often as possible. However, of all the many things he loved about this life, time spent with his family and laughter shared with friends, is what he treasured most.
Those preceding him in death include his parents; one brother, William Nelson; and one brother-in-law, Jack Mustard.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Kathy; three children, Kevin Wayne Nelson of Eldridge, Trina Marie Holt and her husband Danny of Lebanon, Missouri and Kelly Brian Nelson and his wife Morgan Hazell of Lebanon, Missouri; four grandchildren, Zackary Evan Nelson and his significant other, Rose Weber of Dixon, Missouri and Hunter Daniel Holt and his wife Kelsey of Lebanon, Missouri, Sara Bumgarth and her husband Jeremy and Skylar Hawkins, all of Rogersville, Missouri; three great-grandchildren, Jace Lee, Jackson Bumgarth and Nolan Hawkins; brothers-in-law, Sam Mustard and his wife Cathy of Lebanon, Missouri and Norman Mustard, also of Lebanon, Missouri; sister-in-law, Theresa Mustard of Branson, Missouri; several nieces and nephews; other relatives and many dear friends.
Funeral services for Jerry Wayne Nelson were held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel with Pastor Doug Goodwin and Pastor Lonnie Nelson officiating. Burial will be at a later date at Lebanon Cemetery. Jerry’s wishes were to be cremated following the service.
Visitation was Friday evening, November 6, 2026, beginning at 6:00, also at Shadel’s Colonial Chapel.
Memorials in honor of Jerry have been suggested to Lebanon Cemetery. Donations may be left at or mailed to Shadel’s Colonial Chapel, 1001 N. Lynn or P.O. Box 948, Lebanon, Missouri 65536.
Arrangements are under the direction of Shadel’s Colonial Chapel of Lebanon. Sign guest book at www.shadelscolonialchapel.com.
