Graveside service with full military honors for SFC (Retired) Richard Earl Nelson will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, August 13, 2026, in Fort Sill National Cemetery.

SFC (Retired) Richard Earl Nelson, Jr. beloved father, husband, pawpaw and brother passed away at his home in Lawton, Oklahoma on Sunday, July 19, 2026.

Richard, 74, of Lawton, was born in San Diego, California to Richard, Sr. and Lois Nelson on April 20, 1952.

After graduating high school, Richard married his sweetheart, Dawn (Posely) Nelson on December 26, 1970. They had been married for 52 years before her passing in 2023.

Richard had a long and distinguished history of serving his country abroad and at home. He served 22 years in the Army including tours in Vietnam. During which time he received numerous awards including the Bronze Star. His duties included Drill Sergeant, Military Police and Infantryman. After retirement he spent several years as security at Goodyear and later a TMP Driver on Fort Sill.

Richard was a proud and loving family man and spent his years living and taking care of his wife and family. Richard loved putting together military models in his free time and hanging out with his family. He had an amazing talent.

He was truly loved by many and will forever be missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Susan, two sons Anthony and Brent Nelson, and a grandson Kenneth Nelson.

Richard is survived by his son Keith Nelson (wife Kelsey), daughter-in-law Deon Nelson, (heart daughter) Anna, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.