Legacy Lives On: Remembering Entrepreneur and Mentor Richard B. Nelson

Minding one’s own affairs does not preclude vigilance for one's community. Local entrepreneur Richard B. Nelson passed away on May 21 at the age of 75 after a lifetime dedicated to empowerment and leadership. Born in Texas on December 24, 1949, to Richard L. Nelson and Dorothy Rush, he was raised in East Bay before relocating to Sacramento in the early '70s. An academic scholarship led him to CSU Chico, where he advocated for equality, countering critics of affirmative action. Nelson's career included significant roles in banking and state service. He co-founded the Sacramento Black Chamber of Commerce, mentoring leaders like Azizza Davis Goines. Despite personal tragedy, including the loss of his daughter, he launched initiatives to uplift at-risk youth. His legacy as a trailblazer for Black entrepreneurship endures. Services are set for June 17 at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 3996 14th St.