Obituary
John Wesley Nelems, affectionally known as “Bo”, made a peaceful transition to his heavenly home on March 21, 2024.
Born September 8, 1942, Bo was known as quiet and kind; always wearing his infectious smile. He was the third of four children born to the late John and Dorothy Nelems. Each of his siblings: Melvin Nelems, Eleanor Rudolph, and Barbara Potts and his niece Jeanette Potts King preceded him in their eternal slumber.
In his early years, John gave his life to Christ as a member of Stewart Chapel CME where he sang in the choir. Most recently, he was a member of Corinth Baptist Church in Ensley where he attended as often as he could. John was educated in the Birmingham School system attending Councill Elementary and graduating from Western Olin High School. After graduation, he moved to Chicago only to realize he had to come back to Birmingham for his wife Gwendolyn Nelems (deceased Aug 25, 2021). They married New Year’s Eve 1965.
John was a hard worker. While living in Chicago, he worked in an ice house and as an elevator operator to care for his growing family. In 1975, the couple moved back to Birmingham to plant the roots that had begun to sprout. John had 5 children before making that move: Daniella Ellis (Richard), Anita Nelems, Annissa Nelems,John Nelems, and Cedrick Nelems. Once in Birmingham, he attended Miles College and worked for the same school system that afforded him his childhood education.
John was humble in nature, but his charismatic personality shined everywhere he went. He was extremely clever with his words and he enjoyed being around his family and friends. He is survived by 3 daughters, 2 sons, 12 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will all miss him but surely will not let the light of his smile dim.