1950 - 2021

Married: Emmie Lou

2 Children: Connie Jo Steed Massey, Donald Nelson Steed

Nelson Steed was a cherished figure, remembered fondly as a devoted father, grandfather, Christian, businessman, and agriculturalist. His roots lay in Shop Springs, where he began life in a sharecropper family, a testament to his humble beginnings. His family moved several times before settling in LaGuardo, off Cairo Bend, during his freshman year of high school. It was here
that Buck Evans, an agriculture teacher, became a significant influence on him, instilling a deep love for farming. Nelson was industrious from a young age, always finding ways to cultivate whatever crops could bring in some income. After graduating from Lebanon High School, Nelson married Emmie Lou, then enlisted in the National Guard. Together, they moved to the Grave-Wright farm, a property that had been in Emmie Lou’s family. This move marked the beginning of Nelson’s venture into the construction business, where he specialized in building custom homes. Despite his burgeoning career in construction, Nelson never strayed far from his agricultural roots, engaging in truck farming. He and Emmie Lou had two children (Connie Jo Massey & Donnie Steed), and together, they started a venture in raising hogs, managing to balance the demands of business with the responsibilities of raising a family on the farm. In the 1970s, Nelson became a charter member of the Wilson County Promotion, initially established to host an agricultural fair. His involvement was instrumental, serving as vice president for over thirty years and playing a pivotal role in transforming the Wilson County Fair into the celebrated event it is today. Nelson’s career took another significant turn when he entered the banking industry, eventually becoming the chairman of Cedar Stone Bank. In this capacity, he was a staunch advocate for farmers, recognizing the importance of supporting their needs in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape. Upon retiring, Nelson, with the support of his family, expanded his farming operation significantly. His efforts culminated in the development of a USDA meat processing facility, marking another milestone in his remarkable career. Nelson’s legacy lives on through his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, who continue to operate the farm and uphold the values he cherished.