Paul David Nelson, historian, died on September 8, 2024. He is survived by his beloved wife Rebecca P. Nelson. His two sons, Matthew David and Paul Christopher, preceded him in death, as did his parents George T. and Frances Priddy. He is survived by two brothers, Wade and Tommy, and one sister Peggy Dudley. He was born May 15, 1941, in Patrick County, Virginia, and grew up on a small family farm. He majored in history at Berea College. Graduating in 1965, he entered graduate school at Duke University and five years later was rewarded a Ph.D. degree in American Colonial and Military History.
David taught American History at Berea College for 37 years. In 1992 he was appointed Julian-Van Dusen Professor of American History and a year later received Berea’s highest faculty accolade, the Seabury Award for Excellence in Teaching. From 1992 to 2003 he served as chairman of the History Department. David was a Woodrow Wilson scholar in 1965, A Danforth Teaching-Intern in 1968-1989. He published eight books on the American War of Independence.
Memorials may be made to the Salvation Army, 736 West Main Street, Lexington, KY 40508; or Catholic Relief Services, 228 West Lexington Street, Baltimore, MD 20201.
Services for David will be announced at a later date.
