Cheetah's Story

January 24, 1950 - March 3, 2024

On March 3, 2024, Eugene "Cheetah" Nelson departed this world peacefully and made way to his heavenly home to be with the Lord. He was born on January 24, 1950, in Rome, MS, to the late Mamie Lee Nelson and Reverend Charles J. Nelson. He Later relocated to Chicago, Illinois where he lived for over 30 years. He confessed his life to Christ at an early age and was a member of Holly Grove M.B. Church. He remained a faithful servant until he entered eternal rest.

Cheetah grew up in Drew, Mississippi where he graduated from Drew Hunter High School in 1968. He also attended both Coahoma Community College and Mississippi Valley State University. He was a community advocate, beloved neighbor and a devout believer in Christ. He was active in the 1960's Civil Rights movement, and he was also an advocate for elderly rights in his living community. Cheetah was a skillful handyman, and it gave him a connection with many people. Fixing things brought him happiness and he often offered his gift to others during their times of need.

Cheetah was well loved by his family and friends. He was the person to call when you needed to hear a calm and reassuring voice during a troubling hour. If you had a problem, he definitely knew a bible verse to resolve it. Whether your time spent with him was over a game of cards, watching old movies, cheering for the Chicago Bears, relaxing having conversation or in bible fellowship, it was time well spent. His late night calls and long conversations will be missed by many.

Cheetah leaves in this world to mourn, a host of loved ones: His former wife, Rubye of Ruleville. Diane preceded him in death. His siblings- Lelar Colbert (Paul) of Waynesville, MO, Maeola Nelson of Drew, Dorothy Glover (Horace) of Walls, Sheryl Nelson of Drew, Donald Nelson (Ruby) of Drew, Aretha Williams of Drew and Charles Williams (Brenda) of Ruleville. His siblings Charles Nelson Jr. (Juanita), Sidney Nelson, Jimmy Nelson (Lily), Harold Nelson (Linda) and Annola Higgins all preceded him in death. His children- Melanie Townsend of Drew, LaFagus Carpenter of Ruleville, Karlita Carpenter of Ruleville and Aisha Nelson Rogers (Tristan) of Fort Worth, TX. His son, Garrett Carpenter preceded him in death.

Cheetah will be deeply missed by his 11 grandchildren, (Zamir, Bria, Dentarious, Lafaydrianique, Kiari, Jimir, Kalia, Brelan, Kenan, Kayleigh and Khloe), 11 great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.