Bobby Travis Nelson

Bobby Travis Nelson passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 26, 2016 surrounded by loving family at his home in Abilene, Texas. If there was ever a man who loved his God and his family, it was Bob. He was a faithful, loving, capable and Godly man, and his family and friends loved him dearly. Visitation will be held at The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road in Abilene, on Monday, June 27, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 28, at The Hamil Family Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Reid of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be at Elmwood Memorial Park. Bob was born on July 30, 1927 in Comanche, Texas, later moving with his family to Beattie and then De Leon. In 1944, he graduated from De Leon High School. Shortly after graduating, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving his country at the end of World War II. Bob re-enlisted in the Navy at the start of the Korean War, serving aboard the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Essex with distinction. While at home on leave, he asked a sweet, young De Leon lady if he could write to her. Thus began a 60+ year loving marriage with his wife, Faye Thomas Nelson. After the war was over, on November 25, 1954, Bob and Faye were married in De Leon, Texas. That same year, they moved to Abilene, where Bob began working for a printing company. A few years later, he began working for the Abilene Reporter News, retiring after 30 years in 1989. Bob was a member of Pioneer Drive Baptist Church where he served the Lord faithfully, always willing to help when needed. Bob loved spending time with his family, going on vacations, and playing games (which he usually won). Bob had a playful, some would say mischievous, side to him that delighted his children and grandchildren. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Coy and Ruby Nelson, and sister, Betty Lou. He is survived by his wife, Faye Nelson; daughter Janet Nelson Fischer and husband Gary; son Robert Nelson and wife Toni; brother, Coy Wendell Nelson and wife Jerri; grandchildren Jason Travis Fischer, Jennifer Fischer Carroll, husband Caleb and great-granddaughter Harper, Emily Fischer, Ashley McGuire, Lindsey Lovell and husband Michael; and by numerous nephews, nieces, and other family. The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Hendrick Hospice for the excellent care they provided in the last few weeks of Bob's life.