In Loving Memory of Artie Nelson

Arthur Vincent Nelson, Jr. (Artie), a lifelong Savannah resident whose joyful spirit, generous heart, and love for family, friends, and community touched countless lives, passed away at the age of 80 on August 3, 2026, at his home at The Social of Savannah.

Born on July 1, 1946, at Telfair Hospital in Savannah, Georgia, Artie spent his entire life in the city he loved. He graduated from Richard Arnold High School in 1967 and went on to dedicate 37 years of faithful service to Candler Hospital, where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of coworkers and patients alike. He was often referred to as "The Mayor of Candler Hospital."

Artie never met a stranger. He genuinely loved people and embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. His family was the center of his world, and his faith was a guiding force throughout his life. Artie loved God and was a devoted member of Grace Methodist Church of Savannah, where he found great joy in worship, fellowship, and serving alongside his church family as an usher, greeter, encourager, and "Right Hand Man" to many pastors over the years. As his health declined and he was unable to attend services, he always kept up with attendance each week and would make numerous phone calls to check on those who missed church. He was a real connector of people. He loved the people of Grace, and they showed their love to him in many ways. His greatest honor was bestowed on him in 1995, when the Methodist Men voted him "Grace's Man of the Year."

A passionate supporter of the Georgia Bulldogs, Artie could always be counted on to wear his beloved red and black while enthusiastically cheering on his favorite team. Whether celebrating a Bulldog victory, sharing a laugh with friends, or gathering with loved ones, he found happiness in bringing people together, while often vying to be the star of the show. He could often be found eating and fellowshipping at the former Holland House, drinking coffee with his friends at McDonald's, and enjoying countless family dinners and church dinners every chance he got.

More than anything, Artie will be remembered for his kindness, warmth, infectious smile, mischievous antics, and unwavering love for others. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and his joyful outlook on life left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was truly unique and one of a kind, and he let his light shine to those around him.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, laughter, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, church family, and all whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his sister, Sally Nelson Watson; his precious nieces, Joyce Watson Lane and Julie Watson Johnson; and his nephews, Joshua Lane and Justin Johnson. He was so very excited when he became a great uncle to Madison Lane, Judah Johnson, Dawson Lane, and Asher Johnson. Artie has a host of cousins who were very special in his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Martha Nelson; his older sister, Muriel Joyce Nelson; and his brother-in-law, Dee Watson.

A celebration of Artie's life will be held on Monday, August 10, at Grace Church of Savannah, located at 6412 Waters Ave in Savannah, GA. A visitation will be at 10:00 AM, and the service will follow immediately at 11:00 AM. Burial will follow the service at Hillcrest Abbey East. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in remembering a man who truly made the world a brighter place. Please wear black and red to honor Artie's memory and his love for the UGA Bulldogs.

Flowers will be accepted, but the family requests that donations be made to his lifelong beloved church, Grace Church of Savannah.