Byron Dennis Nelson 

February 10, 1940 ~ September 5, 2024

Byron Dennis Nelson was born on February 10, 1940 in Norfolk, Nebraska to Leonard and Hazel (Thor) Nelson. He passed away from complications of diabetes at his home in Duncan on Thursday, September 5, 2024. He was 84 years old.

The family will greet visitors on Monday, September 9, from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at Whitt Funeral Home. Funeral services are planned for 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, September 10, at Whitt Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Randy Southerland pastor of New Hope Baptist West officiating. A live stream of his chapel service will be available by going to www.whittfh.com and clicking the link at the bottom of his obituary. Interment will follow in the Old Velma Cemetery.

Byron graduated from Westside High School in Omaha, NE and then attended Arizona State University where he graduated with a Master's Degree. He loved his job as a teacher while teaching on a reservation for 12 years and then next to reservation for 18 to 20 more years.

On June 21, 1980, he married, Gayle Brown in Norman, Oklahoma. In his spare time, Byron collected 6,000 LP records and many items from the Papago Indian Tribe. He was very active in the Lions Club International where he held numerous district offices. Byron loved to travel and spend time with his family and his dogs. He was a member of New Hope Baptist Church West.

Byron was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Rodney Nelson. Survivors include his wife Gayle, of 44 years; children: Mark Nelson and wife Josette of Oxford, MS, Derrik Nelson and wife Rachel of Europe; and 3 grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Duncan Noon Lions Club, PO Box 31, Duncan, OK 73534.

Online condolences may be made at www.whittfh.com.