James Richard Nelson
James Richard Nelson was a beautiful man who designed and built beautiful things. He was born in Chester, PA on March 1, 1938 and passed away on January 17, 2025 in Naples, FL. Jim passed with his wife, Lorraine (Gaudino) of 61 years by his side and was surrounded by his family in the days before.
Jim proudly graduated from Cornell University in 1961 with a degree in Architecture. His wife and family were his first love, but architecture was a very close second (his wife and family may dispute this). He was extremely committed to his profession and opened The Architect’s Studio in Montchanin, DE in 1967. In the five decades that he practiced architecture, he was licensed in eight states and worked on thousands of projects including residences, schools, libraries, houses of worship, retirement communities and government buildings. He received numerous awards for his work which touched the lives of many people. Jim served on the board of the American Institute of Architects from 1978-1982, was elected as Vice President (1983) and was President of the Delaware chapter of the AIA (1976-1977). He was elevated to the esteemed College of Fellows (FAIA) in 1982 for his contributions to the profession. Jim was a natural mentor, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger architects and discussing architecture with anyone who would lend an ear. Jim was rarely seen without his favorite yellow, mechanical pencil in his hand and would constantly sketch his ideas on any available paper, including many napkins.
Jim served in the Navy with the SeaBee’s from 1961 to 1965. He achieved rank of Lieutenant and received the highest accolades from this superior officers.
Jim thrived on being active, participating in sports and travel, and enjoyed a full social life. He was a gold level ice dancer, a ballroom dancer, and he rowed, played tennis, and skied. He loved music and always enjoyed a great party. He strove for excellence in all his pursuits, whether it was watercolor painting or designing and building an award-winning jungle gym for his friend’s grandchildren. He could fix or make absolutely anything, from working on his 1949 International Harvester farm tractor to designing his daughter’s wedding dress. Endlessly creative with a keen eye for detail, he couldn’t keep his hands off an artistic project. Jim always paid particular attention to his appearance and was equally as comfortable in cut-offs or a tuxedo.
The magnificent house in Kennett Square, PA, which he designed and built in 1970, was his family home for half a century. Starting as a small, modest residence, the house was a work in progress with Jim’s ever-evolving ideas.
Jim was a family man and a true friend that lived his life with generosity, integrity, exuberance, and humor. Throughout his life he continually looked for opportunities to share his good fortune and good nature with those he met.
Jim retired full time to Naples, Florida in 2021 where he enjoyed the warmer weather, visits from his family, more parties and good meals with friends.
Jim is pre-deceased by his father, James, mother, Estelle (Yandziak) and sister, Joan (Mansfield). He is survived by his wife Lorraine, his son Jeffrey and wife Catherine (Skelly), daughter Jennifer and husband Jim Cameron, three grandchildren, Gordon Cameron, Sadie Cameron and Kildare Nelson, nephews John Mansfield, wife Lori (Pagenkemper), and Michael Mansfield, wife Pam (McClosky).
A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, beginning at 10 am at McCrery and Harra Funeral Home, 3924 Concord Pike where a memorial service will follow at 11 am. Burial will be held privately.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
For online condolences visit: www.mccreryandharra.com
