Cletis T. Nelson, kindhearted soul

Cletis T. Nelson was born Jan. 8, 1985, in Lewes, to Juanita Nelson and Cletis Simms. He passed away Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014, at the age of 29. Unbeknownst to the world, a kindhearted soul was about to enter and make a peaceful impact on all who had the privilege of meeting him. His life was unexpectedly cut short, but God doesn’t make mistakes.

Cletis had a loving spirit that surrounded his personality. He loved sports and he was talented, smart, genuine and most important, family oriented. He held a strong connection to his five siblings.

He was raised in the Milton community where he attended H.O. Brittingham Elementary School and Milton Middle School. After completion of school at that level, he attended Milford High School.

Cletis was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Johnny Nelson; paternal great-grandmother, Anna Savage; and great-aunt, Dorothy Ames.

He is survived by his mother, Juanita Nelson; father, Cletis Simms; only child, Latrell Lewis (who resembles his father); one sister, Tamekia Nelson (who was raised with five brothers including Cletis); four brothers, Tavares Nelson, Terrence Nelson, Ricky Nelson and Sharmba Sheppard; grandparents; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Services were held Thursday, Jan. 23, at Friendship Baptist Church, Lewes. The family is accepting donations. Arrangements by Bennie Smith Funeral Home.