Mr. Nelms was born in Nash County, April 28, 1934, to the late O.S. Nelms and Josephine Sykes Nelms.  He served his country during the Korean War with the United States Army and after returning home, was a life time farmer at Pierce’s Cross Roads.  He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother.  In addition to his parents, Mr. Nelms is preceded in death by his sister, Kaye Saunders.  

Surviving is his wife of 56 years, Jean Bailey Nelms of the home; three sons, James O. Nelms, Jr., Wade Nelms, and Eddie Nelms; two daughters, Debbie Walls, and Sharon Oliver, and husband, Chuck; two sisters, Ramona Bragg and Betty Anne Batten and husband, Donnie.  Also surviving are his grandchildren, Billy Walls and wife, Nacole, Jeannie Walls, Justin Nelms, Cody Nelms, Rebecca Nelms, Jamie Oliver, and Lauren Oliver.

The family will receive friends at Hockaday Funeral & Cremation Service, Friday, May 2, 2014 from 7-8:30 pm.  Rev. Steve Formo will conduct a graveside service, Saturday May 3, 2014 at 1:00 pm at Forest Hill Cemetery in Nashville, NC.

Online condolences may be sent to www.hockadayfs.com