Long-time Southwestern professor Jimmie Nelson passes away
Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary alumnus and long-time faculty member Jimmie Nelson passed away May 14, 2025, at the age of 97 in Lubbock, Texas.
Nelson was born on Feb. 11, 1928, in Wichita Falls, Texas, but spent most of his childhood in Borger, Texas, with his adopted parents. He became a follower of Christ while in high school, and as a senior experienced God’s call to pastor. He went to Baylor University before graduating from Southwestern with a Bachelor of Divinity in 1952 and a Doctor of Theology in 1961.
Nelson served as pastor of churches across Texas for 25 years before he was named a faculty member at Southwestern in 1972. He would serve there for 26 years as the director of field education for the School of Theology, associate dean for the Doctor of Ministry program, and professor of preaching.
During his time at Southwestern, he continued to serve in churches as pastor or interim pastor, even pastoring in the Netherlands and other European countries during three sabbaticals. He participated in crusades, revivals, and conferences in Japan, Brazil, the West Indies, and across Europe and into Russia. He also served as an adjunct professor for several semesters at the Canadian Baptist Seminary.
Nelson’s daughter Julie Couch, a faculty member of Texas Tech University, remembers her parents’ travels and her father’s commitment to serve, even having opportunities to speak at churches in the past few years.
“He really was devoted to ministry,” Couch said.
Even after his retirement in 1998, Nelson continued to participate in ministry as interim pastor, Bible study leader, or through speaking engagements and teaching opportunities that continued into his 90s.
“Jimmie Nelson was a well-respected member of the Southwestern community,” Southwestern President David S. Dockery said. “He served faithfully as a pastor and mentor to students, staff, faculty, and other pastors as well. We pray for God’s comfort for his family even as we offer thanks for his years of faithful service.”
Nelson was preceded in death by Dolores, his wife of 53 years. They had three children—Stephen (Robin), Alan (Susan), and Julie (Robert), five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.
The funeral service will be held Monday, June 2, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church of Burleson, Texas. Visitation will be held Sunday, June 1, 4:00-6:00 p.m. at the Mountain Valley Funeral Home in Joshua, Texas, where funeral arrangements are being handled. Visit their website for the full obituary and details.
