On Sunday, June 26, 2022, Darrell O'Dell Nelson, 66, of Lexington, NC was called to service one final time – joining the Army of the Lord. The youngest of three children, he has now been reunited with his father, William W. Nelson, mother, Bessie Viola Nelson, sister, Audrey Yvonne Nelson, brother, Willie Rayfell Nelson and nephew, Dominic L. Nelson.

All were cherished members of the Lexington community. Darrell was a 1974 graduate of Lexington Senior High School. From 1976-1979, Darrell served in the United States Army. He was a member of the XVIII Airborne Corps, 82nd Airborne Division. As an Army Ranger, he was a certified paratrooper and sharpshooter. Additionally, Darrell worked for the North Carolina Department of Transportation and Cardinal for many years. In Darrell's later years, he was self-employed as a metal recyclist.

He was a faithful member of Union Baptist Church until his health began declining. Though having no children of his own, Darrell took part in leading and raising members of the younger generations by sharing knowledge and genuine heartfelt care. Passing on his love of animals and clowning sense of humor to help and heal, he was always able to leave you with a smile. His presence will be missed and has caused a large void that will never be filled.

Darrell leaves behind a wife, L'Tanya Nelson; sister-in-law, Alice Nelson; nephews: James (Monique) Nelson, Rufus (Martika) Nelson, Lindsay (Nicole) Nelson, Mario Nelson and Maurice (Bria) Nelson and their families; his sisters: Janice Tate, Rona Lockhart and Sherraine Lockhart; the Lockhart and Tate families; special and devoted friend, Brandi Morris; cousins: David (Diane) Nowlin, Larry (Trenita) Nowlin, Jackie Nowlin and Carmelita Smith; and everyone he met along the way.

The funeral service will be Friday at Union Baptist Church at 11:00am with family visitation at 10:30am. Burial will follow at South Lexington City Cemetery.