Fred Willis Nelson was born to the late Rev. Freddie and Rosetta Nelson on August 17, 1947 in Roscoe, TX.Fred attended school and graduated in 1965 from Booker T. Washington in Sweetwater, TX.After graduation Fred enlisted with the National Guard at the age of 17. In 1966 Fred enlisted in the United States Army and felt that it was not challenging enough. He then enlisted in the United States Marines, where he served two tours of duty in the Vietnam War. He received the rank of Sergent Fred Willis Nelson, as well as the Good Conduct Citation, the Presidential Unit Citation, RUNAFMUC Gallantry Cross with Palm and Frame, the Vietnamese Four Star Service Medal, the Vietnamese Campaign Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Rifle Marksmanship Badge.Fred worked many years for Conoco Oil Refinery in Denver, CO. In 1980, Fred moved to Midland where he was employed as a security guard with First National Bank. Also in 1980, Fred met the love of his life, Carolyn Ann Carter. He made Carolyn his wife for 34 years on October 2, 1981.He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Melvin Hurdle, a sister, Billie Sue Jefferson and a granddaughter, Ja’nae Hawkins.Fred leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Carolyn; one daughter, Nicola Hodges (Darren) of Ft. Stockton; two sons, Louis Ford (Tiffany) of Tulsa, OK and Garland Niblett of Abilene, TX; his honorary son, Jon Ford of Tulsa, OK; one sister, Barbara Pertile (L.A.) of Midland; nine grandchildren, Dejaun, Louis, Adrianna, Natalee, Desiree, Imani, Marcus, Zane, and Lena; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.,
