In Loving Memory of Richard “Tyrone”Nelson

A Life of Faith, Family, and Music

Richard Nelson’s life was a melody of faith, love, and service. A song that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Born in 1961 in St Louis, Missouri to Norma Jean Nelson and Richard Nelson, Richard began a musical journey that would span more than 50 + years. His beginnings were rooted in Westminster Church of God, where his mother formerly served as pastor. It was there that he began sharing a gift that would become a lifelong ministry.

Through the years, Richard shared his musical talents with Mount Paran Missionary Baptist Church, Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, Agape Ministries, Blow Your Trumpet Ministries, New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, Hope of Shiloh, and New Salem Primitive Baptist Church, along with many other congregations. Wherever he served, his music became part of the worship and the memories of those gathered there.

In 2006, Richard founded Anointed Voices of Praise, affectionately known as AVOP. He played keyboard for the group throughout its years of ministry, from 2006 to 2011, bringing his love of music and praise to a shared purpose.

Richard’s legacy extends beyond the music he played. He mentored numerous musicians, generously sharing his knowledge and experience with people he loved dearly. Through his guidance and encouragement, he helped others develop their gifts and find their own musical voices. His influence lives on in their lives, their ministries, and every note they play.

Alongside his devotion to music was his love for his family. Richard and his beloved wife, Maaria Nelson, shared 21 years of marriage and were blessed with two beautiful children, Fabiana and Ivory. His place as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle will forever be treasured by those who called him their own.

Richard was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Jean Nelson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife, Maaria Nelson; his children, Fabiana (Jahvonni) McIntyre and Ivory Nelson; and his granddaughter, Milan McIntyre. He also leaves his three younger siblings, Treva “Lynn” Pitts (Darwin), Trenetta “Lori” Nelson, Terrance “T” (Kimberly) Nelson, Keithen (Carsy) Pittman, and Kendall Pittman; four nieces, Danielle (John), Dakota, Julia, and Dana; and three nephews, Drew, Bradley, and Terrance Jr. “TJ.” His memory will also be cherished by the many musicians, church families, and friends whose lives he touched.

Richard was deeply loved, and he will be immensely missed. His family will carry his memory with tenderness, finding comfort in the love they shared and the lasting gift of his life.

His hands have rested, but his music lives on in the musicians he mentored, the churches he served, and the hearts of those who will love him always.