Nelson Eugene Jennings

Nelson Eugene Jennings, age 70, passed away at home on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Born in San Jose, California, on January 23, 1956, to Bill and Hazel Jennings, he was the eldest of three children and a devoted big brother to Carla Jennings and Bryan Jennings, both of Columbia, Missouri. Nelson was the loving father of his son, William Robert Jennings, and stepfather to Kimberly Gregg of California. He was a cherished PaPa to his three grandchildren, Keandra, William Jr., and Trenton Jennings, all of Linn Creek, Missouri.

Nelson and his beloved wife, Susan Jennings, made their home in Longview, Washington, in 1996. A longtime member of IBEW Local 332 in San Jose, he retired in 2015 after a distinguished career. He devoted his life to the people and pursuits he held dearest—his family, his friends, and the hobbies that brought him joy. An avid sports fan, fisherman, and golfer, Nelson was especially known for his passion for shuffleboard. Ranked alongside his father as number one and two in the shuffleboard registry, he was recognized throughout the community as a fierce and respected competitor. His love for the game only deepened with age, and he continued to play until his final days.

Nelson often described his friends as “the very best of the best in all of the land.” He is preceded in death by his wife Susan and his parents. He will be deeply missed by his family and all those fortunate enough to be counted among his friends.