Nelvin A. Crace

Nelvin Crace, 83, of Sherwood AR stepped out of this life February 10, 2024 into the arms of Jesus. Connie, his loving wife of 58 years, was by his side.  He had struggled many years with Parkinson’s Disease.  

He was preceded in death by his Mother Mildred Crace Moore and Father Chester Crace, and is survived by a brother, Gary (Sallye) Crace of Kentucky and his children Christopher and Ellery and their families.  

Nelvin was a dedicated Christian man who dearly loved and was a great example to all of his family - Three sons, Kelly Crace (Bonita), Allen Crace (Tabetha), and Joseph Crace, and Grandchildren, Zale Crace (Amber), Alex Crace (Caitlynn), Austin Daniels (Stephanie), Natasha Climer (Michael), and Nathaniel Crace (Terri), thirteen great-grandchildren and adopted family, Eddie and Sandy Riggs and their daughter Audra Turner and her family. 

He was born on September 29, 1940 in Olmstead, AR and grew up in the Sylvan Hills area. He graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1958, served our Country in the Navy, and in 1971 he graduated from Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology.  In the early 60’s, he gave his life to the Lord and soon after was called by the Lord to preach the gospel. While in college, he preached in jails and on the streets in SC, AL, and GA.  During his years of ministry, he did evangelistic work and pastored churches in Pine Bluff, Texarkana, and Cabot AR, and Anderson, SC. After pastoring, for many years he taught Bible classes at Victory Baptist Church and Levy Baptist Church. He was a wonderful teacher of the Bible and was loved by those who were blessed by his teaching. Many thought that he had a special ability to study and impart God’s Word. He was a humble man, always giving God the Glory. 

Nelvin also spent many years finishing sheetrock and was affectionately known on jobs as “Preacher” because he always shared his faith with others.   It was easy to spot him around town in his bright red work truck with the white camper shell and people would often stop for a quick visit with him. He loved the hard work and enjoyed the many friends he made over the years.  

 He was a great man of integrity and leaves many relatives, friends, and even strangers whose lives he touched.   

 The family would like to thank the Arkansas Hospice Team for the great care they provided for Nelvin and our family during the last few months. Also a special thanks to private caregiver, Judith Long.   

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR  72114.  501-758-1170.