Donald Wayne Nelson

Donald Wayne Nelson passed peacefully in his sleep into the presence of his Lord and Savior on July 1, 2026, at the age of 84.

Born on March 28, 1942, in Cottle County, Texas, Donald was the son of Harley Q. and Estel Nelson. He spent his early years in Fannin County before moving to Fort Worth to pursue new career opportunities. It was there that a blind date introduced him to the love of his life, Sheila Klein. That chance meeting blossomed into a beautiful marriage that lasted 63 years, filled with unwavering love, faith, and devotion.

Together, Donald and Sheila built a life in Arlington, Texas, where they raised their two children and made their home for more than four decades. They later enjoyed retirement on acreage in Mansfield, where they continued to cherish the peaceful country lifestyle they had always loved.

Donald was a true pioneer in the field of precision optics. Throughout his distinguished career, he made significant contributions to the development of laser light refractors, optical scanning technology that evolved into the barcode readers now used in grocery stores and retail establishments worldwide, and heads-up display systems utilized by military jet pilots and other aircraft. His innovative work left a lasting impact on technology that continues to benefit countless people today.

Outside of his career, Donald treasured time spent with family and friends. He and Sheila enjoyed life on their farm in Perrin, where they raised horses and created countless memories hosting family gatherings filled with country-style meals, barbecues, four-wheeling adventures, overnight visits, and their cherished annual Fourth of July fireworks celebrations. After retirement, they sold the Perrin farm and moved to Mansfield with their favorite horse, continuing to enjoy the quiet beauty of country living.

Above all, Donald's life was defined by his faith in Jesus Christ. A devoted member of Pleasantview Baptist Church in Arlington for nearly 40 years, he faithfully served wherever there was a need. Though he preferred to work behind the scenes, his servant's heart was evident in everything he did. He faithfully served as an usher, assisted with counting and securing church offerings, worked alongside Sheila in the bereavement meal ministry, helped with projects for her Ladies' Sunday School class, and willingly participated in countless cleanup and service projects. Donald had a special gift for quietly encouraging others, especially the widows of the church. To many, he became much more than a fellow church member, he was a trusted friend, a brother, a father figure, and a source of steadfast comfort and encouragement.

Donald was a loving husband, devoted father, proud grandfather, and cherished great-grandfather. Nothing brought him greater joy than gathering with his family. He especially loved spirited games of dominoes and horseshoes, sharing meals, enjoying game nights with friends, and participating in church fellowships that strengthened the relationships he held so dear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harley Q. and Estel Nelson; his sisters, Mildred, Juanita, Lola, Bessie, and Wanda; his brothers, Troy, Jack, Eugene, Alvie, and Charles; and his beloved granddaughter, Heather Lynne Harrison.

Donald leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 63 years, Sheila Klein Nelson; daughter, Deanna Harrison; son, Jeffrey Nelson; grandsons, William Parker Harrison and his wife, Jodi, and their children, Avrey, Callen, and Cora; Clayton Nelson and his wife, Taylor, and their children, Brandon, Elena, and Lincoln; Cody Nelson and his wife, Caitlin; and Clark Nelson. He is also survived by his brother, Eddie Nelson, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and a host of treasured friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humility, and steadfast faith.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Wade Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, Texas 76013.

A Celebration of Life honoring Donald will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Pleasantview Baptist Church, 4400 Pleasantview Drive, Arlington, Texas 76017.

Donald lived a life marked by humility, integrity, hard work, and unwavering faith. He never sought recognition, choosing instead to faithfully serve God, love his family, and care for those around him. His legacy will live on through the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the enduring example of a life well lived for Christ.