George Jerry Nelms

George (Jerry) Nelms passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 10, 2022, in Fair Oaks, California at the age of 83.

Jerry was born on February 7, 1939, in Bakersfield, California to Olive and Gene Nelms. Jerry and his family moved to Napa around 1950. He graduated from Napa High School in 1957 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force shortly after graduating. Jerry served in the military in the Vietnam Era from 07/03/57 to 07/02/61 as a Communications Center Specialist and Morse Intercept Operator. He earned the CG Medal on July 2, 1960, prior to being honorably discharged a year later. After being discharged from the Air Force, Jerry began working at Mare Island Navy Shipyard where he worked as a Nuclear Inspector for 35 years.

Jerry met his wife, Priscilla, in 1961 and they were married on February 3, 1962. They were married for over 50 years and had four children: Kim, Greg, Jeffrey, and Daniel. Jerry and Priscilla shared countless adventures from raising their four children to the trips they would take to Boomtown, Arizona for Giants Spring Training, Hawaii, Cruises, and many other adventures.

Jerry was actively involved in the community. He was a member of the Napa Elks Lodge, Napa Moose Lodge, American Legion and Native Sons. Jerry served as the Exalted Ruler of the Napa Elks in 2000, President of the Native Sons in 1977 and past officer of the Moose Lodge.

Jerry was predeceased by his parents, Olive and Gene Nelms; his sons Daniel and Jeffrey; and his loving wife Priscilla. He is survived by his sister, Donna; daughter, Kim Nelms; son, Greg Nelms; grandchildren Levi Olmstead, Jami Kennedy, Braedon Scott, Charlotte Scott, Chip Nelms and Rocco Nelms; his great-grandchildren Hunter Olmstead, Morgan Olmstead, Preston Olmstead, Jordan Erskine, Wyatt Erskine, and Mason Erskine; his great-great grandson Grayson Olmstead; and many other nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, sister-in-laws, and cousins.

Everyone who knew Jerry loved him. His sense of humor, loyalty and love for his family and friends were few of his greatest qualities. We are all better people for having him in our lives.

A memorial service is schedule on October 7, 2022, at 11:00am at Tulocay. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to Alzheimer’s Association or American Heart Association.

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