Cecil was born on March 2, 1955, in Elizabethton, Tenn. To the late John "JC" Nelson and Charlotte Sue Tyree and his step-father: Fred Tyree.

He loved spending time with his family and friends. He also enjoyed his three dogs, Chief, Digger, Destiny and three Cats: Momma Kitty, Baby Kitty and Goose.

Cecil enjoyed fishing with his son. He couldn't believe after so many years that he would have a daughter Melinda "Daddy's Girl". He loved talking about his life growing up with his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother: David Nelson and a sister: Linda "Sis" Nelson. Cecil was a member of Watauga Lodge # 622 and the New Zion Faith Center.

He is survived by his loving wife of 20 years: Melissa Nelson; his three children: Freddie "Skeeter" Nelson, Melinda Nelson and Tayler Nidiffer and fiancé Doug Combs. Also, Daughter; Liz Nelson and two grandchildren: Kaleb and Kylie Nelson.

A Celebration of Life Service will be conducted at 7 p.m. Monday, April 6, 2026, in Memorial Funeral Chapel with Dr. James Richardson officiating. Graveside Service will be conducted at 3 p.m. Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in the Spears Cemetery, Bluff City. Active Pallbearers who are requested to assemble at the funeral home at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday will be: Doug Combs, Kaleb Nelson, Hunter Nelson, Rick Nidiffer, Scott Odom, Tanner Powell and Eric Carter. Honorary Pallbearers will be: James Arnold, Kent Arney, Joe Knisley, Anthony Buck, Staff at Lingerfelts and members of Watauga Lodge # 622. Our family would like to thank for all the text, phone calls and prayers during this difficult time. Also, the Staff at Amedisys Hospice during his time with family for their excellent care. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. Monday in the funeral home prior to the service. Condolences may be sent to the family at our web-site www.memorialfcelizabethton.com. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday to go to the cemetery.