Nelson Fitzpatrick

Nelson Fitzpatrick, age 81 passed away on Sunday, March 19, 2023 at his home in Panama City Beach, Florida after an extended illness.

Nelson was born in Commerce, Georgia to Clyde and Nell Minish Fitzpatrick on July 13, 1941.  Nelson graduated from UGA in 1963, then taught and coached football, basketball and track and field at North Hall and Norcross High School for several years.  After coaching he worked his way up in the corporate world. Nelson retired from owning and operating gyms in Athens and Commerce. 

In addition to his parents Nelson was preceded in death by his brother Leon Fitzpatrick.   Nelson is survived by his son Chris (Tami) Fitzpatrick, daughter Kelly Gandara (Danny), brother Jeff (Jane) Fitzpatrick, four grandchildren, Daniel (Courtney), Kevin (Kelsey), Connor and Carson, and four great grandchildren, Reese, Kyndra,  Xayne and Jane, and girlfriend Kelli Harrison.  Nelson is also survived by nieces Kasi Thurmond and Ashley Jenkins, and nephew Zach Fitzpatrick.

Nelson was a man of many interests.  He enjoyed the beach, sports, running marathons, showing his Shih Tzu dogs, and traveling in his Coach.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, March 23 at 11:00 am at Erastus Christian Church in Commerce, Georgia with Reverend Ashley Fitzpatrick Jenkins officiating.

Visitation will be 10:30 am in the Sanctuary.  Interment will be in the Erastus Christian Church Cemetery.

Memorial Park North Riverside Chapel 989 Riverside Drive Gainesville, Georgia is in charge of arrangements. For online condolences www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com