TJ Nelson

TJ Nelson, 88, of Houma, Louisiana, passed away on March 9, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 30, 1937, in Hammond, Louisiana, to William and Olivia Nelson, TJ lived a life rooted in faith, service, and deep devotion to those he loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Barbara Songy Nelson; his children, Melinda Carrere (Ricardo) and Bruce Nelson; his grandchildren, Bradon Carrere (Jeanne-Claire), Jonathon Carrere (Jade), Brittany Hortin (Michael), Amber Nelson, Dylan Nelson, and Kaelin Smith (Emmeth Jr.); and ten great-grandchildren. TJ was preceded in death by his son, Bryan Nelson, his parents, William and Olivia Nelson, his mother- and father-in-law, Roland and Leona Songy, his grandson, Terrel Carrere, and his sisters, Helen Mastin, Evelyn Wadsworth, and Margaret Ann Nelson.

A man of quiet strength and unwavering commitment, TJ served as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus Council 10612 and as Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree with Holy Family Assembly. He was also deeply involved with the Boy Scouts of America and worked for more than 30 years as a pumper with Texaco. Above all, he was a devoted family man who cherished his wife, children, and grandchildren with his whole heart.