James "Buddy" Harry Nelson, Jr.

James “Buddy” Harry Nelson, Jr., who just celebrated his 90th birthday, went to his heavenly home on May 5, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Doris Nelson; his three daughters, Patti Stahlsmith (Bob), Vicki Williams (Matt), and Lori Nelson; his sister, Dale Berryhill (Leonard); 10 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Harry Nelson, Sr., and Lorena Hightower Nelson, and also his brother Richard “Dick” Nelson. He was known by his students and players as Coach Nelson, and to everyone else, he was known as “Buddy” - no name could’ve been more fitting.

Born on April 7, 1936, to Harry and Lorena Nelson, Buddy spent his life investing in his community. He served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. Then he earned his bachelor’s degree from Furman University and his master’s from Western Carolina University. As he pursued a career in education, Buddy’s impact in his community only grew. He could compete in most any sport with the best of them, but his generous spirit would have the greatest impact on his students. For the rest of his life, he wouldn’t be able to walk into a local restaurant without someone shouting, “Hey, coach!” During his coaching career, he coached varsity basketball for several years and served as head coach of the North All-Star Team in the 1963 Annual North-South All-Star game in Columbia, leading his team to a 2-point victory over the South All-Stars.

Buddy loved many things: coaching, country music, sports of any kind (especially Furman - Go Paladins!), But he truly gave the very best of himself to his family. Buddy and Doris met at North Greenville and were college sweethearts; the beginning of a 69-year-long marriage that the Lord would bless with their three beautiful daughters, many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

His beloved nickname would only grow in meaning as his grandchildren called him “My Buddy.” If there was one thing they could count on, it was that “My Buddy” would show up to every dance recital, track meet, and basketball game. He was always there to be his family’s biggest supporter.

His unwavering kindness and steadfast nature shaped his marriage and are carried forward by his daughters, his grandchildren, and a generation of students who came through his classes and played on his teams.

Although we grieve today, those who loved Buddy are filled with confidence. His hope was not found in this world, or even in the full life he lived, but rather in the promise of eternity with Jesus. He has been made new and is finally home with his Savior!

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Robinson Memorial Gardens, officiated by Pastor Joey Altom. The family will host a celebration-of-life service at 11:00 AM at Grace Church, 9205 SC-81, Piedmont, SC 29673, with visitation immediately following. The family asks if friends are able to please wear Furman purple to Buddy's services to honor him. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in honor of Buddy may be made to Grace Church, https://grace.sc/ or Front Porch Housing, https://www.frontporchhousing.org/get-involved/give.

Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.