Community Builder’s Corner: Supporting a Family – Celebrating a Life by Hadiah Amit
The community deeply mourns the loss of George Nelson, Sr., a figure of immense influence and respect. As the owner of Pa & Ma’s Backyard Barbecue, George was not just a beloved husband and father, but also a cornerstone of the Near Northwest Community. His selfless service as the head of his family’s restaurant for many years has left an indelible mark. His wife Monica shared, “He built a legacy of food, loyalty, and community.
He was a selfless man who would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it and feed you as well.
George Nelson, Sr. profoundly impacted the community through his selfless service. His family, in a display of remarkable strength, opened the doors of the restaurant the very next day, a testament to their commitment to continue his legacy. “It is what my father would have done. He has fed so many people who needed it all around this community. We are going to carry on his work.”, said his son George Nelson, Jr.. Chef Tawana Gulley of Healthy Soul restaurant, located at the Amp at 16 Tech, shared that her love of cooking and her success as a chef and community champion is mainly due to the inspiration of her cousin.
Services for George Nelson, Sr., were held at Stuarts Mortuary, 2201 N. Illinois Street, Indianapolis, IN 46208. The turnout was befitting of a man and family who impacted a community with their lives of service and dedication.
The family asks everyone who can support them to do so in the best way possible by continuing to patronize the restaurant. Share your love and memories of George, and enjoy some great food!
Volunteer Your Time: Community members skilled in business management, marketing, or simple volunteer tasks can offer their time and expertise to help stabilize the restaurant’s operations.
Share Your Stories: We invite you to share your stories and photos to honor George's memory. These memories will be compiled into an electronic commemorative book for the Nelson family.
Send your stories to info@nearnorthwest.com in the subject line “George Nelson Tribute.” The window to submit will be open until Oct. 31, 2024.
Community business owners and close friends sum it up best: "While George's physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit of generosity and community service endures. Let's all come together, not just to mourn our loss, but to ensure his legacy lives on."
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