James William "Bill" Nelson

James William “Bill” Nelson, age 74, of Hot Springs, passed away on Friday, August 13, 2021, at CHI St. Vincent Hospital.

He was born on July 10, 1947, in Russellville, the son of J.C. Nelson and Julia Elizabeth Corzine Nelson. He is preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert “Bob” Nelson; and his beloved dog, AWOL, who only recently passed away.

Bill was raised and educated in Russellville, a 1966 graduate of Russellville High School, a 1971 graduate of Arkansas Tech University, and in 1970 was drafted and played as a free agent for the Minnesota Vikings until a career ending injury led him to the path of becoming an educator and coach.

“Coach”, as he was perhaps best known, spent most of his life and energy as an educator, football and track coach at Barton High School, Hot Springs-Southwest Junior High, lake Hamilton High School and Hot Springs High School. He coached and mentored countless athletes, was a favorite teacher to many of his students, and taught hundreds of students to drive, while making all the popular stops in town along the way. He earned many awards and accolades including state track championships at Hot Springs High in 1999, 2000, and 2001 and was awarded National Track Coach of the Year in 2001.

He spent his summers preparing for and shooting fireworks with his best friend, Tom Daniel, cruising Lake Hamilton on his party barge and enjoying time with countless friends. After retiring from teaching, he remained at Spa Fireworks until 2017, before truly retiring.

He is survived by his son, and daughter-in-law, Brad and Teresa Nelson, granddaughters, Juliana and Eviana of Houston, Texas; his son, Jeremy Nelson, granddaughter, Lily of Hot Springs; a niece, Tammy Baker and husband, Garland of Russellville, as well as extended family and dear friends.

Memorial service will be held 10:00 AM, Saturday, September 25, 2021, in the Hot Springs Junior Academy Trojan Arena.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Garland County Humane Society.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Hot Springs.

Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.