Carl Wayne Nelson

Carl W. Nelson, Sr., age 89, of Hannibal, Missouri, passed away at 12:27 a.m. on Monday, May 4, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral services will be held on May 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the United Pentecostal Church of Palmyra, Missouri. Rev. Robert Axton will officiate. Burial will follow at Grand View Burial Park with full military honors provided by Boots Dickson American Legion Post 174.

A visitation celebrating Carl’s life will be held at Grand View Funeral Home in Hannibal, Missouri, on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Carl was born on December 19, 1936, in Hannibal, Missouri, to Ernest and Velma (Bingham) Nelson.

He was united in marriage to Rosie Dodd on August 18, 1967, in Hannibal, Missouri. She survives.

Survivors also include his son, Wayne Nelson (Shelly) of Hannibal; daughters, Tonya Gilbert (Joe) of Hannibal and Robin Howland (Ryan) of Hannibal; grandchildren, Amber Bainter, Justin Gilbert (Emily), Seth Nelson (Star), and Noah Nelson (Kloie); and great-grandchildren, Alexia, Hailyn, Eleana, Brooklyn, Oakley, Bristol, and Anavay. He is also survived by a beloved close friend, Mike DePew (Tammy) of Wentzville, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Velma Nelson, and three brothers, Ernie Nelson, Bob Nelson, and Charles Nelson.

Carl graduated from Hannibal High School in 1957 and went on to serve in the United States Army for four years. He later began his career with the City of Hannibal Police Department in 1967. During his years in law enforcement, Carl attended Hannibal-LaGrange University, where he studied criminal justice. Through his dedication and commitment, he rose to the rank of Sergeant before retiring in 1987.

Carl was a devoted St. Louis Cardinals fan. He took great pride in his yard and kept it meticulously maintained. He made sure the grass was always neatly trimmed, with clippings carefully picked up, and he never left leaves on the lawn in the fall. He truly loved working outdoors, and his yard was often considered one of the nicest in the neighborhood.

Above all else, Carl’s life was defined by his faith. He loved Jesus, cherished God’s Word, and was devoted to serving Him. It was often said that Carl was the kind of police officer who would arrest you on Saturday and take you to church on Sunday. On one occasion, he even brought inmates from the jail to attend a Sunday service—much to the disapproval of the judge. For Carl, it was important that everyone had the opportunity to hear about his faith. During the holidays, he also made sure those in jail were cared for, bringing in warm, home-cooked meals prepared by his wife, Rosie.

Carl’s first passion was his church. In his younger years, he served as a youth Sunday school teacher at the United Pentecostal Church in Hannibal and faithfully made bus calls on Saturdays. Then he taught adult Sunday school classes at Gospel Lighthouse Church in Hannibal. Later in life, he served as an elder at the Pentecostals of Palmyra. He was always willing to help wherever there was a need. He read the Bible through 102 times and was on his 103rd reading.

Above all, he showed his love for the Lord through the way he cared for his family—especially his beloved wife, Rosie, the love of his life. He often called her “my sweetheart” and cherished every moment they spent together, never wanting to be apart. All who knew Carl were touched by his generosity and kindness, and he will be deeply missed.

Pallbearers: Justin Gilbert, Seth Nelson, Noah Nelson, Sonny Smith, Steve Walker, and Brandon Brosi

Honorary Pallbearers: Amber Bainter, Mike DePew, Wayne Nelson, Joe Gilbert, and Ryan Howland

Memorial contributions can be made to United Pentecostal Church of Palmyra.