Kelva R. (Thomas) Nelson

Mrs. Kelva R. Nelson, 63, of Ashland, KY entered eternal rest on Friday, June 19, 2020 at the University of Kentucky Albert B, Chandler Hospital. Mrs. Nelson was born July 30, 1956 to the late Suffragan Bishop Elzy Thomas and her surviving mother Margaret Thomas. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her husband Ernest Nelson. 

Kelva is survived by her two sons, whom she loved dearly: Andrew (Sara) Nelson and Austin Nelson. Her sisters: Karen (Walter "Butch") Troxler, Kristi (Gregory) Rogers, Karla Thomas, Kerry (Beach) Johnson, Kimburly (Scott) Colburn and Katrina Thomas. Her grandchildren: DeAndrew Nelson, Amiyla Nelson, Amira Nelson, Aliyah Nelson, Ke'O Nelson and Cyrus Nelson.

Kelva was a dedicated teacher for 33 years for the Ashland independent School system and taught at Crabbe Elementary School for her entire career. After retirement, she continued to serve as a substitute teacher. She was recognized in 2007 as an American Star of Teaching and was the only one in the state of Kentucky to received this distinction.

Kelva is an alumnus of Berea College in Berea, Kentucky. She is being awarded the 2020 Distinguished Alumnus for her "contributions to the community and commitments to the mission of Berea College." The award will be given posthumously to her family.

Kelva was an active member for over 60 years at Christ Temple Church in Ashland, Kentucky. She served in many capacities such as: Sunday School Educator, Youth and Adult Choir Director, After School Tutor, Youth Theatrical Director and Praise and Worship Leader. She was also one of the Praise and Worship Leaders for the First Apostolic Council of Kentucky and Tennessee. 

Homegoing Service will be at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at Christ Temple Church, Ashland, Kentucky 41101. Entombment will follow at the Ashland Cemetery. Friends may visit the family from 10:00 AM until time of service on Wednesday, June 24, 2020 at Christ Temple Church. Adherence to Covid-19 guidelines will be observed for this celebration. 

Young Funeral Home has been entrusted with the care of Mrs. Nelson and her family. 

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