Nelson Cabell Lacy of Columbia, South Carolina died on May 23, 2024. He was the son of Seddon Lacy and Margaret Nelson Lacy. Nelson is survived by his wife Virginia Quattlebaum Lacy, his sons William Neal Lacy of Del Ray Beach, Fl and Richard C. Lacy (Teri) of Midway, KY, his stepsons, S. Sterling Laney, III (Ashley) of Greenville, SC, Arthur D. Laney (Michelle) of Lexington, SC and Jefferson B. Laney (Kimberly) of Columbia, SC, two grandchildren: Matt and Ben and 5 step grandchildren: Shelton, Wells, Virginia Grace, David and Thomas. He was predeceased by his sister Mary Seddon Lash.

Nelson was born on January 23, 1939 and spent his early childhood in Birmingham, AL. He graduated High School from The Webb School in Bell Buckle, TN and received a Bachelor of Art's Degree from Birmingham Southern University as well as a Master's Degree in Public Relations from the University of Alabama.

Nelson served with distinction for over twenty years in the U.S. Army and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He served in Korea following the Korean war and was active duty during the conflict in Vietnam, as well as a number of domestic postings. Some of his notable postings were in Honolulu following Vietnam where he worked in Public Relations and coordinated soldier repatriation including working with celebrities to offer appropriate recognition. In addition, he was a speech writer for the Surgeon General of the Army at the Pentagon (1976-1980). Among other commendations, he received the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry as well as a Bronze Star for his service in that country. After retiring from the military, Nelson served for many years in the South Carolina State Guard. During his time with the State Guard Nelson held many leadership positions and ultimately became its Commanding Officer in 2006. While with the State Guard, Nelson helped coordinate the hosting of the Medal of Honor celebration held in Charleston, SC. Nelson retired from the State Guard with the rank of Brigadier General. For his service with the State Guard Nelson received the Order of the Palmetto from Governor Mark Sanford in 2011.

In civilian life, Nelson held several positions and last worked as an Administrator with the SC Department of Mental Health. He also spent much of his free time volunteering for Camp Kemo, being an active member of the Kiwanis Club of Columbia, Northeast and being a member of Richland County Post 6 of the American Legion. Nelson's volunteer duties included his dressing up for several years as Santa Claus for children who could not be home for Christmas due to their battles with cancer.

In 2001 Nelson and Virginia moved to a 12 acre farm right outside of Ridgeway, SC which they affectionately named "Big Oaks". Big Oaks was a great place to host family and friends and also served as a safe haven for several abused and neglected horses who were rescued from their situations. In his new home, Nelson continued to find ways to serve his community and friends. He became a member of the Fairfield Hospital Board and was also active in the Council on Aging as well as Meals on Wheels. He also helped organize the Ridgeway Christmas Parade and again enjoyed his role as Santa Claus. In 2014, Nelson was named Ridgeway Citizen of the Year in honor of his many contributions to the Ridgeway Community

Nelson's final move provided much joy for him. From April 2022 until his death, he lived on the Congaree skilled unit at Still Hopes in West Columbia. There he received excellent care from all of the staff. He also enjoyed many activities such as: music concerts; field trips; pet visits to his room; pet parades; art activities; Friday Church Services and much more.

Nelson became a long-time member of Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, USA right after retiring from the military. In true keeping with his sense of volunteering, Nelson quickly became involved with the Men of the Church, Sunday School and Ruth's Bible classes. He also served as a Deacon and an Elder during his time as a member. Spring Valley Presbyterian was also the place where he and Virginia were married in 1990.

When not serving his country or his state or volunteering at his church and in his community, Nelson enjoyed cooking for others, hosting barbecues with dear friends and spending time with all of his beloved family. There is no question that Nelson lived a full, rich life and was a shining example of how one can serve others in this world.

A private internment service with the family will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 followed by a memorial service at Spring Valley Presbyterian at 11:00 a.m. Following the memorial service, the family will receive visitors in the fellowship hall of the Church.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Spring Valley Presbyterian Church, 125 Sparkleberry Ln, Columbia, SC 29229 or a charity of choice in Nelson's honor.