Mr. Ernest Dean Nelson, 76, of Barbourville, passed away Thursday morning, December 4, 2025 at his home. He was the son of the late John Willie and Maggie L. Vaughn Nelson born August 8, 1949 in Knox County.
Ernest was a former coal tipple operator, plumber and devoted member of God’s Temple Church. He valued his faith and had a strong work ethic. He found joy in working on cars, cleaning and detailing vehicles, and tackling projects around the house and yard. He cherished every moment spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, and loved spoiling his beloved wife, Linda. He enjoyed attending car shows, listening to his favorite music, and relaxing while watching classic westerns. Whether he was piddling around with a new project or enjoying a simple treat like vanilla ice cream or a milkshake, Ernest embraced life’s small pleasures with a full heart.
He was a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather who always provided for his family, as they were his true passion in life.
On November 27, 1971 he united in marriage with Linda Gray.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two children, Eric Dean Nelson and Angela Ann Nelson, brothers, James, Ronnie, Donnie and Bill-Jay Nelson, sisters, Martha Waldon, Wanda Hubbard and Zelma Nelson, sister-in-law, Beverly Sue Nelson and brothers-in-law, Gill Waldon and Eddie Hubbard.
Survivors include his loving wife of 54 years, Linda Gray Nelson of Barbourville; children, Lashon Nelson Roach and husband, Rev. Randall, of Gray and Marsha Nelson Grace of Barbourville; brother, Leroy Nelson of Artemus; grandchildren, Tessa Bargo and husband, Gary, Dylan May and wife, Destiny, Alex Grace and wife, Josie, Jaycee Grace and partner, Evan Maxie, Haylee Helton; bonus grandchildren, Dylan Roach and wife, Kristina and Andrew Roach and wife, Katie; great-grandchildren, Charity Bargo, Crisalynn Bargo, Memphis May, Casen Bargo and Harley May; bonus great-grandchildren, Damien, Darren and Waylon Roach; special friends. Rev. Ray Dean, Shannon Taylor, Johnny Gray and Rev. Ledford Hamilton; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted at God’s Temple Church Tuesday, December 9 at 1 P.M. with Rev. Ray Dean, Rev. Pete Clark and Rev. Tim Spencer officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Barbourville Cemetery.
Serving as casket bearers will be Alex Grace, Dylan May, Gary Bargo, Evan Maxie, David Hubbard and Terry Hubbard.
Friends may visit at the church Monday between 6 and 8 P.M. and Tuesday prior to the funeral hour.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations are made to the funeral home to assist with his funeral expenses.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of ERNEST NELSON.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.