December 12, 2025
B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University is honored to announce the establishment of its first endowed scholarship, made possible through a generous estate gift from longtime Texas Baptist pastor, educator, and friend of the seminary, Dr. Jimmie Nelson. The Dr. Jimmie Nelson Endowed Scholarship will support students enrolled in Carroll’s Ph.D. program, continuing Dr. Nelson’s lifelong investment in ministerial education.
Dr. Nelson, remembered widely for his decades of pastoral leadership, teaching ministry, and dedication to theological preparation, served Texas Baptist churches for more than 60 years. He pastored congregations across the state, taught future ministers, and devoted his life to strengthening the Church through faithful preaching and mentoring. His influence extended into the early formation of B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary, where he played a vital role as an instructor, supporter, and ambassador for the seminary’s mission.
“Jimmie Nelson was a servant of the Lord who was a supporter and encourager of B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary from its early days,” B. H. Carroll Dean Dr. Gene Wilkes said. “Dr. Nelson taught for B. H. Carroll, promoted the school among his friends and network of ministers, and supported the mission of Carroll through his faithful giving and prayers. Dr. Nelson was one of the early pioneers of B. H. Carroll who the Lord used to establish a seminary for the next generation of church leaders. His smile and personality filled every room he entered. I am blessed to have known and served with him. His legacy of teaching, service to the church, and friendships will be felt for decades to come.”
As the first endowed scholarship in the seminary’s history, Dr. Nelson’s planned gift marks a historic moment for B. H. Carroll.
“The first endowed scholarship is a milestone moment for B. H. Carroll Theological Seminary at East Texas Baptist University,” ETBU President Dr. J. Blair Blackburn said. “While many faithful supporters have provided scholarship funds for students throughout the history of B. H. Carroll, Dr. Nelson’s foresight to establish an endowed scholarship in his planned giving will provide a consistent income of scholarship for years to come.”
Dr. Nelson’s legacy of service, preaching, and academic leadership is further strengthened through this enduring investment in future ministers.
“In addition to Dr. Nelson’s legacy as a pastor and educator, his establishment of the Dr. Jimmie Nelson Endowed Scholarship cements his legacy as a benefactor of B. H. Carroll. Generations of ministers will benefit from the generous gift of Dr. Nelson,” Vice President for Executive Affairs Scott Bryant said.
Dr. Nelson is remembered not only for his scholarship and leadership, but also for his warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to equipping the next generation of church leaders. Through this endowed scholarship, his impact will continue to shape ministers and ministries for decades to come.