News Summary
Dr. E. Harold Nelson, a dedicated radiologist and family man, passed away at 82 after battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia. Born in Georgia, he served in the Army Medical Corps during the Vietnam War and practiced radiology in Augusta for many years. Renowned for his kindness and community engagement, Dr. Nelson left behind a legacy of compassion through his family and his work. A memorial service is scheduled to honor his life and contributions.
Augusta, GA – Dr. E. Harold Nelson, a distinguished radiologist and cherished family man, passed away on September 10, 2025, following complications from Acute Myeloid Leukemia. He was 82 years old.
Born on September 3, 1943, in Montezuma, Georgia, Dr. Nelson faced the loss of his parents, John Robert and Hazel Rodgers Nelson, and his younger brother, Phillip Wayne Nelson, prior to his passing. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Winifred “Penny” Lariscy Nelson, their daughter Anne-Brown Adams, son Phillip, and daughter-in-law Norris Nelson. Dr. Nelson also leaves behind four grandchildren: Phillip, Jackson Adams, and Helen and Hollis Nelson.
Dr. Nelson’s academic journey began at Macon County High School, where he graduated as valedictorian. He then attended the University of Georgia before completing his medical degree at the Medical College of Georgia. After finishing an internship at MCG, he was drafted into the U.S. Army Medical Corps, serving as a field surgeon in Vietnam. His military tenure earned him numerous accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, and Combat Medical Badge.
Following his military service, Dr. Nelson completed his residency in diagnostic radiology at the Medical College of Georgia and subsequently became board certified by the American College of Radiology, which later honored him with a Fellowship. He spent his entire medical career practicing in Augusta, where he held prominent positions such as President of the Doctors Hospital Medical Staff, Chairman of the Radiology Department, and involvement with the University Health System Council and the University Physicians Association Board.
His leadership extended beyond individual institutions as Dr. Nelson served as President of both the Richmond County Medical Society and the Georgia Radiological Society. Dr. Nelson retired from active practice in 2002, opting to dedicate his time as a devoted husband and grandfather.
Known for his warm personality, Dr. Nelson hosted weekly Monday night couples’ dinners to foster friendships and connections within his community. An active member of Trinity on the Hill Methodist Church, he participated in various volunteer activities, reflecting his belief in the importance of caring for others. His philosophy emphasized that personal fulfillment comes from showing kindness, a principle he lived out daily when engaging with friends and family.
Throughout his life, Dr. Nelson was characterized by a positive outlook and a seminal belief that practical life lessons were essential. He often highlighted the importance of simple advice, such as using sunscreen, and had a light-hearted approach to adversity, routinely engaging with life’s challenges without regret. As a grandfather, he transitioned from the affectionate title of ‘Big Daddy’ to a nurturing support for his grandchildren as they matured.
A memorial service is scheduled for September 14, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM at the French Market Grille, located at 425 Highland Avenue, Augusta, GA. A remembrance ceremony will be held at approximately 5:30 PM during the gathering, which encourages casual dress attire. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Friends of Frances Foundation in Dr. Nelson’s honor.
Dr. Nelson’s enduring belief was that small acts of kindness could significantly impact others, a theme he exemplified throughout his long and fulfilling life.
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Additional Resources
- Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors: Dr. E. Harold Nelson
- Augusta Chronicle: Dr. E. Harold Nelson
- Atchley Funeral Home: Augusta Ann Keasler
- Legacy.com: Beverly Barnhart
- Augusta Chronicle: Beverly Barnhart
- Wikipedia: Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
- Google Search: Dr. E. Harold Nelson
- Google Scholar: Acute Myeloid Leukemia
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Radiology
- Google News: Dr. E. Harold Nelson
