Ronald F. Nelson, Jr.

Ronald F. Nelson Jr., 61, of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 7, 2026, at St. Luke's University Hospital in Bethlehem.

Born in Coaldale, Pennsylvania, on Friday, December 11, 1964, he was the son of the late Ronald F. Nelson Sr. and Sarah (Miller) Nelson. Ron was a proud 1983 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School.

A lifelong pizza maker, Ron spent his working years mastering his craft. He "threw pizzas" for local favorites DiMaggio's and La Casa Del Sol in Tamaqua, and also spent a brief time working at Dough Boy's in Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Ron was a passionate sports fan who loved collecting and trading sports cards while cheering on the Colts, Phillies, and Celtics. A true music lover, he appreciated many genres and frequently listened to the classic sounds of AC/DC, Bruce Springsteen, and Queen. He also famously—and "allegedly"—played the guitar, often to the amusement of his loyal cat, Patches. Above all, Ron adored his family, especially his grandchildren, who affectionately gave him the ultimate title of "Batman." Throughout his recent illnesses, Ron found comfort and guidance by relying on his steadfast Catholic faith.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his beloved grandson, Baby James, and his brothers, Robert J. Nelson Sr. and Dwayne E. Nelson.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Rebecca L. "Becky" Rhoads and her husband Jason; his sisters, Susan E. Stine and her companion Scott Winterburn, and Eva M. Wagner and her husband Shawn; his brother, Greg S. Nelson and his wife Melissa; his adored grandchildren, Jesse, Addison, and Jack; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua, Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550

Friends and Family will Celebrate Ron's Life on Thursday evening November 12, 2026 at 6 o'clock P.M. from the funeral home with a visitation beginning at 4 o'clock P.M.

Online condolences or a fond memory of Ron can be made to the family at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com