Obituary of Reginald Nelson

Reginald  “Reggie”  Nelson was born on the 30th of November 1956 to the late Thomas Glover Nelson Sr. and Annie Joyce Smith Nelson in East Meadow, NY. As one of many children, Reggie was known to be hardworking, passionate, quick-witted, and strong-willed among his close family and friends. He attended Malverne High School and later obtained his CDL, beginning what would be a 30-year successful career as a commercial truck driver, proudly earning “5 Million Miler” status. In 1979, Reggie welcomed his next-door neighbor and soon to be best friend, Vernell Holland, to West Hempstead. Three years later, on May 6th 1982, they married.  From this union, Reggie was blessed with two stepchildren, Varrick and Valerie Holland, and years later with 3 daughters: Renee, Robyn & Ralanda Nelson.

A faithful servant of God, Reggie epitomized agape love and invested his time, his talent, and his treasure into his family, his friends and his community. A brilliant mind, a devoted husband and father, he valued learning, the arts and culture.

On September 13, 2021, Reggie completed his last ride when God called him home. He leaves behind a great legacy and an indelible mark on the lives of many. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Vernell; one son, Varrick Holland, four daughters, Valerie Holland, Renee, Robyn, and Ralanda Nelson; two grandchildren, Garrick & Nija Holland; two godchildren, Brandon Holland &  Charmaine Young; and nine siblings, Bruce Smith Sr, Patricia Ann Lewis Munlin, Lord Nelson, Lanc Nelson, Derry Nelson, Reba Weaver, Cynthia Nelson, Parene Nelson, &  Simon  Nelson, in addition to numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings: Frances Nelson, Tressie Jordan, Thomas Glover Nelson Jr., Rita Elaine, Donald Nelson, Renee Nelson, Janel Nelson and Lucille Nelson.