Craig Steven Nelson, Sr.

Craig Steven Nelson, Sr., 81, of Owings Mills, MD, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Northwest Hospital in Randallstown, MD. Born on July 1, 1945, in Baltimore, MD, he was the son of the late David Hamilton Nelson and Ruth Anita Kirk Nelson. He was the beloved husband of Tammy Kernan Nelson and the late Antoinette “Toni” Theresa Distefano.

Craig was a proud veteran of the United States Army. Years ago, he worked in fire protection for Sweetheart Cup Co. Craig was a lifetime member of the Owings Mills Volunteer Fire Company, VFW Post 521, Bucs Club, and American Legion Post 116. He was a past commander of the VFW.

Surviving him in addition to his wife are children: Craig Nelson, Jr. and wife Tanya of Westminster, MD, and Pastor James Michael Crocker and wife Louise of Reisterstown, MD, grandchildren: Christine, Vince, Michael, Craig, Taylor, Jenna, Jessica, Josh, Jonah, Hannah, great-grandchildren: Austin, Parker, Nattie, Josey, Huckston, Molly, Virginia, Michael, Ziggy, Junniper, Cameron, Sophie, and siblings: David Wayne Nelson of Union Bridge, MD, and Lisa Gaye Woolfson of Spring Grove, PA.

He was predeceased by his son: Morgan “David” Crocker, and brother: Richard Roland Nelson.

The family will receive visitors on Sunday, November 8, from 3-5 and 7-9 pm and on Monday, November 9, from 9:30-10:30 am, at the ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A., 11605 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117, followed by the funeral service, with his son, Pastor Jim Crocker, officiating.

Interment to follow in Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery in Owings Mills, MD.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Craig’s name may be offered to Bible Fellowship Church of Reisterstown, 120 Berrymans Lane, Reisterstown, MD 21136.