William Nelson Heavener, lovingly known as Nelson and affectionately called “Doc” by much of his family, passed away on December 31st, 2025, in Lewis Center, Ohio, at the age of 90.

Nelson was born on June 16, 1935, in Bergoo, West Virginia, to Inecia and Russell Heavener. He was one of ten children and formed lifelong bonds with his brothers and sisters. Some of his fondest memories were made by spending time in nature with his father, Russell, experiences that shaped his deep appreciation for the outdoors that stayed with him throughout his life.

Nelson spent most of his adult years in Scio, Ohio, where he built a life defined by hard work, faith, and devotion to family. He retired from the Timken Company after more than 25 years of service, a career he approached with pride, dedication, and a strong work ethic, values he instilled clearly to his children and grandchildren.

Nelson had a true love for the outdoors, especially hunting, a passion he shared closely with his brothers and friends. He was particularly fond of raccoon hunting and cherished the many coon dogs that were part of those years and memories.

A man of enduring faith throughout the valleys as well as the mountain tops of life, Nelson was passionate about his belief in Jesus and lived out his values through quiet strength, integrity, and responsibility. He believed firmly in hard work and in providing for his family. Those who knew him will remember his quiet confidence, kindness, and endearing stubbornness—a man who was tough but gentle, all at once.

Above all else, Nelson was most proud of his family he built alongside his beloved wife Nancy (Myers) Heavener, after they wed in 1961. They raised three children —Vickie, Donna, and Rusty, all whom he loved deeply.

Nelson is survived by his daughters Donna Heavener (Michael) of Lewis Center, Ohio, and Vickie Heavener of Powell, Ohio; his grandsons Nathan Rehm (Emily) and Garrett Wright (Madelyn) and his great grandchildren, Camdyn and Bennett Rehm; his brother Ed Heavener (Karen), brother Leon Heavener (Cathy), brother Charlie Heavener (Gayle) sister Norma Nicholson, and sister Carol King (Bill), as well as his many nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy (Myers) Heavener, whom he shared a life with until her passing in 2000. He was also preceded in death by his son Rusty, his parents Inecia and Russell Heavener, his brothers Gerald and Jimmy, and his sisters Wanda and Virginia.

Nelson’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved so deeply, and the example he set through faith, perseverance, and humility.

A private service will be held for family only. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for a donation to be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Nelson’s honor, a cause he faithfully supported for many years. Koch Funeral Home, Scio has been entrusted with his services.