Edward "Ned" Zachary Nixon

SHREVEPORT, LA - Ned Nixon died peacefully in his home on February 14, 2017. Longstanding cardiovascular disease prevailed over the recent series of vascular surgeries and Ned's determined efforts to beat all cardiac rehab records on that "God-forsaken bike". Born in Mamou, Louisiana on August 9, 1952, Ned was a life-long and loyal resident of Shreveport. He is best described as a prolific creative writer, a jazz pianist, a brother, a friend to all and a devoted companion to his beloved dog, Baby Girl. He had a superior intellect and was a life-long student and learned scholar of a broad range of subjects including theology, history, science, medicine, music and literature. Yet, he engaged almost everyone he met in unassuming conversation entirely focused on relishing in the subjects that interested them - their favorite football team, their children, cars and pets. He never forgot a name or a detail and despite the improbability that anyone knew more than he, Ned enthusiastically conversed with a certainty that others had more to contribute than he. His humor was irreverent, sometimes dark and provided a glimpse or a jolt into his discerning eye and deep skepticism of The Establishment. Ned's hero was Lucas McCain, but he also admired Kirk, Spock and Bones, especially those of Lt. Uhura. His tastes in music were broad, ranging from classical to funk. His compassion and love, especially for animals and those in the service of others, rival only his intellect as his defining characteristics. Preceded in death by his mother, Gabrielle Stagg Nixon, and his sister, Mary Nixon, Ned is survived by his father, Steele Nixon, Sr., his brothers, Paul Nixon, Steele Nixon, Jr, and his sisters, Sarah Roberts, Claire Hess, Emily Cook, Madeleine Mahar, and Amy Holguin, his sister-in-law Sue Nixon, his brothers-in-law Sam Roberts, Danny Hess, Matt Cook, Matt Mahar, and Gabe Holguin and many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by his neighbors he loved, Pauline and her son, who kept a watchful eye on him and his home. His beloved dog, Baby Girl, has been graciously adopted by brother Steele and his partner, Donna. Ned graduated from Woodlawn High School and had a degree in French from Louisiana State University Shreveport which he put to good use working offshore for Pennzoil for many years. Memorial services will be held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church Wednesday, February 22, 2017 at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Humane Society