TOPSFIELD – Mr. Roy A. Nelson, 95 of Topsfield, loving husband of the late Alta F. (Saunders) Nelson, passed away suddenly on Thursday, November 23, 2023 with family by his side.

Born in Chelsea, Roy was the son of the late Edward and Theresa (Healey) Nelson. He was raised and educated in Chelsea and was a graduate of Chelsea High School, class of 1946. Even after moving from Chelsea he stayed true to his Chelsea roots as a long-time member and past president of the Merrit Social Club.

Following his high school graduation, Roy enlisted in the United States Army, proudly serving his country overseas in Japan.

Upon his honorable discharge from the military, Roy continued his education and embarked on a lengthy career as a chemist, and eventually became a business owner, in the industrial coating industry. Roy was a past President of the New England Society for Coating Technology. Until the time of his retirement, Roy worked alongside his son John managing their manufacturing business in Danvers.

Roy was happiest when with his family, especially on the family property in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire. A generational home that brought him great peace, he enjoyed the memories shared with his close and extended family. He will long be remembered by family sitting on the picnic table with his brother drinking a "Bud" and taking "dips" in the lake as they waited for their shifts on the lawn mower. He lived life on his own terms up until his final day and will be forever missed by all who knew and loved him.

Surviving Roy is his son, John R. Nelson and his wife, Emily of Ipswich and three generations of nieces and nephews. Roy was the brother of the late Mary (Nelson) McFayden and Edward C. Nelson Jr. and brother-in-law to the late Edward McFayden and Kay Nelson.

ARRANGEMENTS: Relatives and friends are invited to Roy's funeral service which will be held at O'Donnell Funeral Home, 167 Maple St., (Rte. 62) DANVERS on Thursday, November 30th at 10 A.M. Burial in Wenham Cemetery. Visiting hours are on Wednesday, November 29th from 4 to 7 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com.