Robert L. Nelson, 81, of Kell, Illinois, passed away at 8:32 pm August 29, 2022 at Salem Township Hospital in Salem, Illinois.

He was born June 4, 1941 in Carbondale, Illinois to the late Chester and Flossie (Brown) Nelson.

Robert married Loretta (Dixon) Nelson on December 11, 1959. They were blessed with nearly 63 years of marriage.

In addition to his beloved wife, Robert is survived by his children, Dreatha Jackson and husband, John, Connie Murphy, Martha Currie, Robert Nelson II and fiancée, Chona, and Sherry Easley and husband, Jon; sixteen grandchildren; eighteen great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Beverly Robbins and husband, Stan; brother-in-law, Michael Dixon and wife, Helen; mother-in-law, Loretta Dean Cox; special friends, the Karrick family; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his son, Keith Nelson; great-grandson, Malachi Kyles; sister, Jewell Nathdurft; father-in-law, David Dixon; and son-in-law, Gerald Dean Murphy.

Robert worked as an automotive mechanic for many years. He enjoyed wood carving and leather work. Robert was a member of AA for 30 years. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A Visitation will be held Friday, September 2, 2022 from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, September 3, 2022 at 11:00 am at Hughey Funeral Home with Reverend Jimmy Fitzjerrels officiating. Interment will follow at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon. Memorials may be made in Robert’s honor to the American Cancer Society. Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.