Russell Eugene Nelson (“Opa”) went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on January 25, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of duty, integrity, courage, strength, and most of all selfless dedication and unfailing love for his family. His greatest joy and love was his three grandchildren.

Russell was retired from the U.S. Air Force’s 36th Tactical Air Police Squadron K-9 Unit. He served during Vietnam and finished his USAF career as an ROTC instructor at the University of Puget Sound, Tacoma, WA. He was also retired from Alumax of SC.

Russell is survived by his daughters Soraiya Wilkins and Shireen Hotchkiss, his son-in-law Gerald Hotchkiss, his granddaughter Rosaleen Casiano (Steven), his grandsons William Wilkins and David Wilkins, his great-grandson Steven Casiano Jr., his sister-in-law Mary Nelson, his nephews Marc (Katie) and Jeff Nelson and their families, and his nieces Jenny Rickel (Mike) and Lindsay Peterson (Brett) and their families. He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years Jansje Nelson, his brother Bob Nelson, and his parents Dwight and Dorothy Nelson.

Russell’s life was exemplified by Philippians 4:11-13 and his favorite psalm was Psalm 53 which begins, “The fool has said in his heart, ‘There is no God.’” Russell will be remembered as a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather (Opa), and as a man whose kindness touched the lives of all who knew him. He is missed more than words can express. Rev. 21:4

Russell’s earthly remains will be interred at Beaufort National Cemetery. Job 1:21