The Richmond News, May 23, 2025

Phil Nelson

Ronald Phillip Nelson, 84, of Richmond died Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at his residence. Ronald was born March 14, 1941, in Richmond, the son of John Marvin and Winona Mildred (McGinnis) Nelson. He was first united in marriage to Virginia Dare Rowell in 1966. To this union, his two children were born. They later divorced.

He was then united in marriage to Josephine Ann “JoAnn” Wheeler. She preceded him in death on April 12, 2023.

Additional survivors include his son, Eric Vincent Killbreath; two daughters, Charis Osborne and Nicole Nelson; three grandchildren, Collette (Preston) Green, Aaron Lancaster and Jacob Lancaster; and four greatgrandchildren, Clark Green, Elliott Green, Arthur Green and Phoebe Green.

He also is survived by his step-grandson, Josh Osborne; stepsons, Scott (Lori) Johnson and Steve (Jessica) Johnson, Darrell Schauf and Mikecal Schauf; and four stepdaughters, Guylene Ferrin, Angie (Mike) Ladd, Holly Johnson and Danna Johnson. Other survivors include 14 step-grandchildren; 15 step-greatgrandchildren; three brothers, Jim Nelson, Steve Nelson and J.M. (Carol) Nelson; and two sisters, Nadine Horn and Ramona (Jari) Saavalainen.

In addition to his second wife, JoAnn, he was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, George, Burt and Paul; sister, Deanna Nelson; step-grandson, Caleb Osborne; stepson, Clifford Schauf; and stepdaughter, Carol Schaul Helms.

Phil was reared and educated in the area of his birth, graduating in 1958 from Richmond High School. After high school, he joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served his country from 1962 to 1965.

Over the years, he held various jobs, including working for Tasty Bread, a vending company and later as a truck driver for a waste management company in Lexington.

Phil enjoyed reading, doing crossword puzzles, going to garage sales and antiquing. He was an avid football fan and a devoted supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Henreitta Baptist Church. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Graveside memorial services were scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, in the chapel at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery in Higginsville.

Please share your memories of Ron with the family at www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.