James Anthony "Tony" Nelson, 71, of Union, MI, passed away on Sunday, May 18, 2025 at his residence after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Rector, AR on February 20, 1954, to the late Marvin Alonzo Nelson and Jenette (Merdith) Floyd.

Tony is survived by his loving wife and companion of 54 years, Sally Nelson; children, Eric Anthony (Stephanie) Nelson and Sarah Michele Nelson; grandson, Christian Anthony Nelson; grandpups, Karma Sue, Silas Anthony, and Stella Mae; siblings, Tom (Judy) Tracy and Sharon (Russ) Gamblin; a host of nieces and nephews; and many friends who were like family to Tony. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, John (Irene) Tracy; sisters, Francis (Glen) White, Suzy (Gary) Gamblin, Wilma (Wesley) Ramer, and Sophie (Alvie) Yancy.

In accordance with Tony's wishes, cremation was chosen. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. in Elkhart. A service will follow at 4:00 p.m. with Barbi Anderson of Rector, AR officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider giving a memorial donation to Corwell Hospice in Grand Rapids, MI; https://corewellhealth.org/foundation . Tony's family would like to thank the caring nurses and hospice staff who took care of him during his final moments.

Tony was an independent and strong-willed man who enjoyed life and time spent with his family. He loved being outdoors, whether it being camping with family and friends, in the sand at Silver Lake, riding the trails of Northern Michigan or 4-wheeler trips to Stevensville. No matter where he went, Tony spent most of his time outside, especially when he could ride his Harley with family and friends on beautiful summer days.

In his spare time, Tony could play a mean game of poker and always claimed to be the winner, never saying how much he truly lost. In his grandsons' earlier years, Tony enjoyed watching Christian, play baseball. He did his best to never miss any of Christian's games and loved watching him grow each year as he played. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather and was a friend to so many. Words cannot express how much Tony will be dearly missed.

Corewell Hospice
Web: https://corewellhealth.org/foundation