William Jonathon Nelson

William Jonathon “Bill” Nelson, 38, of Neshannock Twp., passed away peacefully on October 29, surrounded by the love of those closest to him, following a short and difficult battle with cancer.

Even in the face of an unimaginable prognosis, Bill remained unmistakably himself until the very end. Guided by his unwavering faith, he continued to fight with incredible strength, meet difficult moments with humor, and approach each day with an unbelievable sense of positivity. Through it all, his greatest concern was never himself, but the well-being of the people he loved. Even during his own toughest moments, Bill was thinking about how to take care of everyone around him.

Bill was a larger-than-life personality whose presence could brighten a room and whose impact extended far beyond it. He had a way of making people feel welcome, bringing laughter into everyday moments, and leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. He was the kind of person who gave so much of himself to others, and whose kindness, humor, and unmistakable spirit will never be forgotten.

Above all else, Bill was a devoted husband and father. He worked tirelessly for his family and took immense pride in the life they built together. His greatest joy was his loving wife, Desarae, and their three beautiful children: Liam, 3; Elijah, 2; and Logan, 10 months. They were his world, and everything he did was rooted in his love for them.

Bill was preceded in death by his beloved father, Barry Nelson, who passed away in 2023.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Desarae, and their children, Liam, Elijah, and Logan; his mother, Christine Nelson; his sister, Brittany Forbis, her husband, Ian, and their children, Benjamin, Maxwell, and Lilian. He also leaves behind countless friends and loved ones whose lives were made better simply by knowing him.

Bill was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His strength, generosity, humor, and unwavering positivity were a reflection of the person he was and the love he had for those around him. Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made and the memories he leaves behind will live on through the many people who loved him.

He will be missed more than words can express, but his spirit, laughter, and love will remain with us always.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 699 Stambaugh Ave., Sharon, PA 16146; or the Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma Research Foundation, at www.ACCRF.org

Calling hours will be 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday (11/03/2026) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon. There will also be an hour of calling from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Wednesday (11/04/2026) in Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Sharon. 

Funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Wednesday in the church, with Rev. Jacob Deal, officiating.

Interment: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.