James Herman Nelson, age 81, a native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in Gulfport, Mississippi.

Affectionately known as James, Herm, Scooter, Pop, and Sugar Bear, he was born in Philadelphia on November 4, 1943. James lived an extraordinary life — always known as "That Guy." If you had the privilege of meeting him, you surely never forgot him.

James embodied charisma and courage — funny, bold, and unfiltered in the best way. He never hesitated to share his honest opinion, whether you wanted to hear it or not. While he had a cool confidence, he could be fiery when pushed — but his heart was always in the right place. He was a giver, a protector, and a source of comfort and laughter for everyone around him. He accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and is a member of Hillside Baptist Church of Gulfport, Mississippi, under the leadership of Dr. Travis Anderson.

He had a lifelong passion for speed—fast cars, fast motorcycles, and the fast life were in his blood. A natural-born drag racer, James began sneaking his mother's car out to race before he was even old enough to drive. That thrill-seeking spirit became an entrepreneurial career, as he built some of Philadelphia's fastest cars and motorcycles during his time.

Even into his 70s, James was still tearing up the drag strip. In 2009, James founded Cyclists Unlimited, a motorcycle club in Gulfport, Mississippi. At age 75, he still won races on his motorcycle, leaving spectators in awe. One younger racer once poked fun, asking why he wore a backpack. Without missing a beat, James replied, "Backpack? This is my parachute to slow me down."

That was James — quick with a comeback, big-hearted, and larger than life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Loretta Nelson; his children: Tony, Kenesah, Hyman, Christopher, and Tiffany; and his grandchildren: Jasha, Milanie, Sidney, Jordan, Jayla, J'dynn, Leoni, Idris, Reis, Cody, Aaron, Mylah, and Carson. He was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild, Baby Jasha, expected on October 22, 2025.

He also leaves behind his beloved niece, Venice, and great-nephews Cyir, Elijah, and Jacob.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James Moses Nelson and Ruby Clyde Carter, and his sister, Michele Cotton.