NELSON, JAMES RICHARD FAIA of Naples formerly of Kennett Square, PA. It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James R. Nelson, FAIA. He was a beautiful and talented man who designed and built beautiful structures. He was born in Delaware County, PA on March 1,1938 and passed away on January 17, 2025 in Naples, Florida. Jim passed with his wife 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 might dispute this). He was extremely committed to his profession and following his discharge from the United States Navy, Seabees he opened The Architects Studio, Inc. in Montchanin, Delaware. During the five decades 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 as Vice President and President of the Delaware Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and also served on the Board of Directors and as Vice President of the National American Institute of Architects. In 1982 he was elevated to the esteemed College of Fellows for his work and contributions to the profession. He was a natural mentor, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger architects and discussing architecture with anyone who would lend an ear. He was rarely seen without his favorite yellow mechanical pencil and was always sketching his ideas on any available scrap of paper, including many napkins.
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, rowed, played tennis, golf and skied. He loved music and always enjoyed a good party. He strove for excellence in all his pursuits, whether it was watercolor painting or designing and building an award-winning jungle gym for a friend’s grandchildren. He had the ability to make or fix absolutely anything and found as much enjoyment repairing his 1949 International Harvester Farmall tractor as he did designing his daughter’s wedding gown. Endlessly creative with a keen eye for detail, he could not keep his hands off an artistic project. Jim always paid particular attention to his appearance and was equally 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” growing and changing with the family needs 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.
In 2002 Jim and Lorraine began enjoying life in Naples, Florida at The Savoy where they participated in many activities and made wonderful friends. Jim served on the Board of Directors and was a valuable member of the building and social committee, and created a four story Eiffel Tower in the atrium to set the stage for an“Evening in Paris” party.
In 2021 Jim and Lorraine became full-time residents of Naples where he enjoyed the warm weather, sunsets, and visits from family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years Lorraine (Gaudino), his son Jeffrey and his wife Catherine, daughter Jennifer and her husband James Cameron, grandchildren Gordon Cameron, Sadie Cameron and Kildare Nelson.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to The Michael J. Fox Foundation.
A celebration of Jim’s life will take place in Wilmington, Delaware in the Spring.