Rocky Mount, NC - North Carolina Wesleyan Athletics is deeply saddened to share the passing of Lloyd Nelson '67, a beloved alumnus, Hall of Famer, and lifelong supporter of the Battling Bishops community. Nelson passed away on Sunday, May 5, 2025.
A member of the University's first graduating class and the inaugural men's basketball team, Nelson helped launch the foundation of Bishop Athletics. He was the program's first Most Valuable Player during the 1963-64 season, went on to become a two-time team MVP and All-Conference selection, and was inducted into the NC Wesleyan Athletics Hall of Fame in 2005.
Athletic Director Aaron Denton shared, "Lloyd Nelson was a pillar of our athletics history and a cherished part of the Wesleyan family. His passion for this University was unwavering — whether it was cheering on our teams, supporting our programs financially, or serving in leadership roles that shaped our future. He was a true Bishop in every sense of the word, and his legacy will forever be part of who we are."
Nelson's impact extended far beyond the basketball court. He served on the University's Board of Trustees from 1997 through 2018 and was reappointed to the board earlier this year. He and his wife, Elliott Nelson '66, have long been dedicated supporters of Wesleyan, contributing to the Annual Fund, the Dunn Center for the Performing Arts, and establishing a Battling Bishop Club Endowment.
In 2013, Lloyd and Elliott founded the Jean Edge Women's Basketball Classic, an annual event honoring the late Jean Edge. The inaugural tournament featured Case Western Reserve, Wesley, and Methodist, and it has been held every year since, with the exception of the 2020–21 season.
The Nelsons also played a major role in honoring fellow alumni, with Elliott leading the recognition of Wesleyan Vietnam Veterans during the dedication of the Slick Family Foundation Tennis Center.
Lloyd and Elliott met during their time at Wesleyan and were married on April 22, 1967. Their love for each other and for their alma mater has remained a shining example of lifelong Bishop pride and devotion.
A Celebration of Life for Lloyd Nelson will be held Friday, May 9, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home (1701 East Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC 27609), officiated by his granddaughter, Colleen. A visitation will follow from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. A continued celebration will take place at Vivo's (7400 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh, NC) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. with appetizers and beverages served.
The North Carolina Wesleyan community sends its heartfelt condolences to Elliott and the Nelson family. Lloyd's dedication, service, and Bishop spirit will be remembered and honored for years to come.
