D. Zane Nelson

Aiken, SC - D. Zane Nelson, 65, died Saturday, March 13, 2021 surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer.

     Anyone who knew Zane knew that he was the most loving father and spouse a family could ask for. Zane was predeceased by his mother, Gurtha, and father, Frank. He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years Virginia Nelson and sister Pam (Morris) Deason. He leaves behind two sons Jeremy Z. and Lee T. (Sondra) along with grandchildren Baileigh, Bradford, and great-granddaughter Aiden, nieces Tabatha Rowe and Tiffany (Deke) Herrin.

     Zane was born in Aiken County Hospital and was a member of Marion Street Baptist Church. After graduating from Aiken High School, he attended Baptist College of Charleston.  He retired as a senior technical specialist and metallurgist after thirty-five years of services to Savannah River Site.  During his career he was well-traveled domestically and overseas.

     He spent much of his childhood traveling the United States with his beloved family. An avid South Carolina Gamecock fan he attended games regularly across the years as a season ticket holder. He enjoyed his free time golfing at Palmetto Golf Club. After his retirement, he returned to traveling in a motorhome with his wife Virginia and family. His love of travel brought him back to Palmetto Cove RV Park located Cleveland, SC which his parents helped establish in 1972.  He served as president 2016-2019 and began his second term October 2020 until his death.

     Special thanks to Regency Hospice staff and nurses.  Love and gratitude is extended to two special nurses Pam Randolph who has been with our family for years and Renee for her kindness and support.  Additionally, thanks to Daybreak Adult Care Services for their help and support this past year with mention to Kara Flanders and Linda Lucas. as well as caregiver Angel Sauls and the wonderful nurses. The family also expresses gratitude to Dr. Flanders and the outstanding support staff of Aiken Oncology. Our family sends the sincerest thanks to each of you. 

     The family will receive friends Friday afternoon, March 19^th beginning at 1 o’clock at Shellhouse – Rivers Funeral Home on East Pine Log Rd. The funeral service will follow at 2 o’clock in the funeral home chapel with Mr. Charlie Crampton and Mr. Brad Smith officiating.  Interment will be held at Aiken Memorial Gardens on Highway 19 North directly following services.

     In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Memorial Baptist Church, 3100 Vaucluse Rd., Aiken, SC 29801 or to Aiken SPCA Albrecht Center (www.letlovelive.org) .

SHELLHOUSE – RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD., AIKEN, SC