Wednesday, February 26, 2025 8:29 am

John Thomas Nelson Jr., September 9, 1942-February 20, 2025. John, born in Altoona, PA to Lorena Bingman and John T. Nelson Sr. He grew up in Portsmouth, VA. John attended Hargrave Military Academy, Old Dominion U. and was in the US Marine Corp.

John married Cheryl Holland and they had a daughter, Amber, who lived with Spina Bifida and a cheerful heart until the age of 52. John moved to Lake Gaston, NC with his parents, sister and brother-in-law. They developed and founded American Heritage Campground. He married Marilyn Stuart Ashley in 1975. They made their home at Lake Gaston and had a career in land development/real estate until leaving to go sailing for two years and then moved to WNC near Lake Lure in 1992.

John is survived by his wife Marilyn, sister, Peggy Light of Kinston, nieces and nephews, Kelly Light, Terry Light Humphrey, Jason Light and Russell Leggett and sister-in-law, Jamie Ashley Leggett of Bath.

To make a memorial gift please designate to Hurricane Helene/WNC at Samaritan's Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607

Service details are incomplete at this time.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.