William B. Nelson was born on June 24, 1946, to the parentage of Leroy and Courtney Nelson. He accepted Christ art an early age at Griffin Chapel A.M.E. in Cameron, Texas. William graduated from O.J. Thomas High School in 1963 and attended Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Sociology. He then went on to serve 4 years in the United States Army. Upon his honorable discharge, he began working for Mrs. Baird's and LTV. He retired from the Triumph Group (LTV) in 2013.

He had a deep affinity for sports, especially his team, the Dallas Cowboys and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. His gentle smile and warm spirit brought so much joy to all who knew and loved him. He was a proud father of four children and six grandchildren. William and Rhonda united in Holy Matrimony and his family expanded with two additional daughters, Chrystal and Moniqua.

He was a member of the Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research in Dallas, Texas for 25 years.

Welcoming him in heaven, William is preceded in death by his parents Leroy and Courtney Nelson, as well as his siblings, George, Anthony, Riley, and Bobbie, and one granddaughter, Beaux Giovanna Monet.

Left to cherish his endearing love is his wife, Rhonda Nelson; to treasure his guidance, direction, and love are his children, William "Freddie" Clemmons, Shanta Nelson, Tony Nelson(Kenice), Leigh Ann Nelson, Chrystal Smith and Moniqua Pruitt; to remember him as the best "Papa" or "Gator" ever are his grandchildren; Jordyn, Meison, Cidney, Breadon, Mila and Tamia; to treasure the memory of growing up is his sister, Bertha Nelson Moss; to remember his kind spirit are a host of relatives, nieces, nephews, neighbors and a myriad of extended family.