Michael Nelson

We lovingly remember and celebrate the life of Michael Oliver Nelson, born on July 19, 1974, in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, to Mathias and Martina Nelson. Michael was raised in the communities of Mutual Homes (Grove Place) and Upper Love, where he built lifelong friendships and cherished memories. From a young age, Michael lived life with a free spirit, uplifting those around him with his enthusiastic sense of humor and encouraging words.Raised in a family deeply connected to their faith, Michael attended Bethel Methodist Church from an early age, where he participated in church school activities and the Boy Scouts. He began his education at Eulalie Rivera Elementary School; however, after Hurricane Hugo devastated the island, he temporarily relocated to Hollywood, Florida, where he attended. Upon returning to St. Croix, he continued his education at John H. Woodson Junior High School and later Central High School.During his youth, Michael worked alongside his father in construction and in the family fencing business, Nelson’s Fencing, erecting fences and learning the value of hard work and dedication. It was through this experience that his entrepreneurial spirit began to take root. His father also taught him the game of cricket, a pastime they continued to enjoy together over the years. Michael’s competitive nature extended to skating and basketball with his brothers, where he brought boundless energy, laughter, and enthusiasm into every family gathering.In his early adult years, Michael relocated to Georgia. While living in Lithia Springs, he was united in marriage in St. Croix in June 2000. From this union, he was blessed with two beautiful children, Marquise and Miyah Nelson. Michael proudly graduated from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service in 1997, earning his associates degree as a mortician. Professionally, Michael built much of his career in Georgia.He worked as a DIRECTV technician at Elite Communications Inc. for 12 years before transitioning into the automotive industry. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial drive, he went on to run his own company, Elite Auto Gallery, where he served as CEO.Michael also had a heart for service and community. He volunteered his time assisting with feeding the homeless through Hosea Feed the Homeless and supported Atlanta Animal Rescue and Friends (AARF). He often accompanied his current partner and her children in these outreach efforts, demonstrating his compassion not only for people but for animals as well. Known for having a truly big heart, Michael was a strong advocate for his friends and loved ones. There were many times he gave his last to help someone in need, ensuring friends had a safe place to sleep, helping them secure employment, or providing transportation so they could get to and from work. His generosity, loyalty, and willingness to show up for others spoke volumes about the man he was. Michael also poured his time and passion into youth sports. He coached the Lithia Springs Yankees and served as a coach for LSYRC Fallball 2005, making a lasting impact on the young athletes he mentored while teaching teamwork, discipline, and confidence both on and off the field. Michael also had a profound love for Caribbean music, which kept him closely connected to his island roots. He especially enjoyed reggae artists such as Rygin King, Jah Vinci, Alkaline, Rytikal, and TeeJay. Soca music also held a special place in his heart, often bringing him to his feet to dance, laugh, and fully embrace the joy of the moment with those around him.Michael will be remembered for his warmth, kindness, servant’s heart, and the joy he brought into the lives of everyone who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that when placing orders please only order plant arrangements that the family can take home instead of funeral flowers. The family has also requested that everyone wear some blue in honor of Mike.

 Feel free to give us a call with any further questions.

 Thank you, Staff of Thompsons Mortuary Services.