Loyd Nielson, born January 20th, 1945, in Limon, Colorado to Arthur and Margaret Nielson. Loyd passed away December 14th, 2024, at the William R Courtney Texas State Veterans Home. Loyd's life was a testament to faith, service, and devotion to the church and community.

After graduating from Abraham Lincoln High School in Denver, Colorado in 1963, Loyd pursued his passion for understanding and devotion to Christ by studying Christianity and Sociology at Southwest Baptist College in Boliver, Missouri. Loyd answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Army, where he served honorably from 1963 to 1965.

Upon returning from military service, Loyd deepened his spiritual journey, earning a Master of Divinity from the Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1975. On November 18, 1973, Loyd was ordained into ministry at Elm Springs Baptist Church. Over the years, he pastored congregations at Orrick Baptist Church, Airway Heights Baptist Church, Woodland Baptist Church, Lynn Gardens Baptist Church, and Rapid Valley Baptist Church.

Called to missionary services and planting churches he served as the Director of Missions for the Barton-Dade Baptist Association in Lockwood, Missouri and the West River Baptist Association in Rapid City, South Dakota.

His compassion for veterans led him to chaplaincy at the Hot Springs VA Medical Center in Hot Springs, South Dakota until his retirement.

He loved plants, and working in his garden.  The joy of gardening he learned from his mother. The turnips she grew were a favorite of his children. He enjoyed his books and reading.  Some of Loyd's favorite hobbies include woodworking, camping, fishing, and spending time with friends, family, and fellow veterans.  Loyd loved long drives, and being outside, finding peace and reflection in the beauty of nature.

Loyd is survived by his children, Jay Nielson, Peter Nielson, Brant Nielson, and Melanie Nielson; two brothers, two sisters, and 12 beloved grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the faith he so deeply embodied.

A service to honor Loyd's life and legacy will be held at the Black Hills National Cemetery on Monday, December 30, 2024. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to organizations supporting veterans or missions, causes that Loyd held dear to his heart.