Billy Ray Nelson, 80, of Mooresville, N.C., passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at his home. He was born March 2, 1944, in Viriginia to the late John Rufus Nelson and Louiese Johnson Nelson.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Mickey Chilton Nelson; son, Billy Lynn Nelson; and siblings, Earline Logan and Barbara Bottoms.

Billy was employed with Duke Energy (formerly Duke Power Company) for over 29 years before his retirement. He received many achievement awards from Duke Energy for his service. He attended Pilot Mountain High School. Billy was the owner and operator of Nelson Hillside Stables. He enjoyed bear hunting and was a handyman and could fix anything. He was a wonderful dad and grandfather. He was a 3rd degree Mason with Lodge #496. He also was very active in the Shriners.

Billy is survived by his children, Lisa N. Bowman (James), Robbey J. Nelson (Stacy), and Andy Nelson; siblings, Patty Jessup, Jeannie Gortman, Johnny Nelson (Virginia), Tom Nelson, and Roger Nelson (Janice); grandchildren, Chrystal Johns (Tray), Amanda Henderson (Joe), and Katie Moore (Michael); great-grandchildren, Christian Kepley, Alyssa Kepley, Jake Henderson, Addison Johns, Jamey Henderson, Colt Johns, Brycen Moore, Hudson Moore, Waylon Miller, Layla Miller, and Ainsley Miller; and his fur baby, Sadie and Izzy.

A Celebration of Billy’s Life will be held on August 3, at 11 a.m., in the Chapel of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, with Minister Arnold Douthit officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to VIA Health Partners, P.O. 470408, Charlotte, NC 28247.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, Mooresville, is serving the Nelson family. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.cavin-cook.com.