Reid A. Nelson

East Greenbush - Reid A. Nelson, 83, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Born in Jamestown in 1943, he was the son of the late Mary (Kuzmierski) and Henry R. Nelson.

Reid worked as a systems analyst at Albany Medical Center for 44 years and proudly served in the Army Reserves for six years.

The second oldest of nine children, Reid learned early how to make the most of every dollar, a skill that allowed him to provide his family with wonderful travel experiences year after year. He devoted countless hours to planning camping trips, visits to national parks and, later in life, cruises. Myrtle Beach became a favorite destination, drawing him back several times each year. Train travel was his preferred way to enjoy the journey. He also loved hiking and shared that appreciation for the outdoors with his brothers and children.

Hardworking and resourceful, Reid taught himself every phase of home renovation through tireless research and determination. At home, he found joy in feeding and watching the birds and squirrels in his yard, many of which seemed to be waiting at his window each morning.

Reid treasured his time with his grandson, Trevor, whether discussing politics and sports or cheering him on from the bleachers at his baseball games. He enjoyed many kinds of music, especially Bob Dylan, Judy Collins and classical selections. Exploring different restaurants and cuisines also became a favorite weekly tradition. Reid was a man of many interests, with family always at the heart of them.

Reid was the beloved husband of Nancy Kimok Nelson; cherished father of Holly L. Nelson, Kerry Nelson Gully and father-in-law to Steven E. Gully; and proud grandfather of Trevor Reid Gully. He is also survived by seven siblings.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Reid's family on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, beginning at 9 a.m at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral home service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Burial will immediately follow in Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, East Greenbush.