James David "J.D." Nelms, Sr.

LOUISBURG – James David “J.D.” Nelms, Sr., age 86, passed away on Thursday, March 30, 2023. Born in Nash County, NC on January 3, 1937, he was the son of the late David Rockfellow Nelms and Nanny Bell Perry Nelms. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Winstead Nelms; his son, Ronnie Wrenn; his great-granddaughter, Emily; his brother, Joseph Earl Nelms; and his sisters, Frances Nelms Pittman, Edith Nelms Baker, Judy Nelms Huhn, and Christine Nelms Travis. J.D. was a retired Auctioneer and Industrial Contractor, enjoyed collecting antiques, and attended Rock Springs Church. Always thoughtful of others, helping them when he could, J.D. was a true family man and always felt he was blessed by having such a large family. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather and will be truly missed by all who knew him. J.D. is survived by his special friend of 17 years, Bobbie Edwards Wrenn; his sons, David Nelms, Jr. of Elm City, Gary Wayne Nelms of Rocky Mount, and Melvin Wrenn and wife, Frankie, of Durham; his daughters, Tammy Nelms Spradling of Louisburg, Stacie Turnage and husband, Richard, of Wendell, Lisa Nelms of Rocky Mount, and Jennifer Sanderson and husband, Mike, of Wilmington; his, daughter-in-law, Ella Wrenn of Louisburg; his 22 grandchildren; his 38 great-grandchildren; his three great great-grandchildren; his brothers, John Nelms and wife, Linda, Charles Nelms and wife, Tonya, and Danny “Pete” Nelms and wife, Kathy; his sister-in-law, Gracie Nelms Decot; and many nieces and nephews. A Funeral Service to celebrate J.D.’s life will be held on Monday, April 3, 2023, at 1:00 PM in the Chapel of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services with Rev. Melton Tyson officiating. Burial will follow the service at Rocky Mount Memorial Park. Visitation with the family will be from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM prior to the service in the Atrium of Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.