Ronald "George" Nelms

Ronald “George” Nelms, 70, of Benton, departed this life on February 1, 2022, at his home surrounded by his beloved family.

He was born on January 12, 1952, in Athens, Tennessee to the late Charles L. and Mildred Trentham Nelms.

Throughout life, George developed a passion for being outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.  A lover of life, his greatest joy came from his beloved family, who he loved dearly.  A few of his fondest memories came from the amount of time he spent in the woods and on the water with his friends, but none topped the time he had  with his family.  George was a talented clogger and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Charles and Mildred Nelms, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Swan “Ud” Nelms and John R. Nelms.

Left to cherish the many memories include his beloved wife of nearly fifty years, JoAnn Starkey Nelms; loving children, Larry E. (Trena) Nelms, Lisa Michelle Nelms, and Johnna (Timmy) Jordon; cherished grandchildren, Kyle (Devin) Nelms, Kendra Nelms (fiancé, Logan Aaron), Peyton Nelms, Dakota Nelms (fiancé, Lauren Witt), and Desiree Swallows; great-grandchildren, Braxton Nelms, Hynlee Grizzle, and Omryann Swallows; special friends, Roy Keith, Lee Carver, and James Holt.  Numerous extended family members and a host of friends also survive.

A Celebration of Life service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, February 7, 2022, in the chapel of Higgins Funeral Home with Pastor Benny Watson, Pastor Guinn Green, and Pastor Robert Nelms officiating.  Interment will follow at Old Ocoee Cemetery with Kyle Nelms, Dakota Nelms, Michael Powell, and Emmanuel Burrell serving as pallbearers.

Family and friends will gather from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Monday, prior to the service at the funeral home.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.HigginsFuneral.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to Higgins Funeral Home of Benton.