Nevin was a creative spirit, lifelong learner, and poet at heart. He earned a Master’s degree in social work from the University of Tennessee, and a Doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University.

After working as a psychiatric social worker and a federal parole officer, he was appointed by Governor Lamar Alexander to serve as Chairman of the Tennessee State Board of Pardons and Paroles. Later, he established a private practice in career counseling, helping hundreds of people find meaningful work that harmonized with their gifts and personalities.

Nevin had capacious and varied interests. He was at home with both stand-up comedy and quantum physics; gourmet food and peanut butter and jelly; hiking and art galleries; blues music and opera; and lively conversations about faith, doubt, and the mysteries of the universe. His enduring humor and loving, generous spirit kept shining through—even in his last difficult months.

Nevin’s most cherished endeavor was writing poetry. Known for saying the most with the fewest words, his poems continue to be treasured by people of all ages and walks of life.

To honor her late husband and creative partner, Karen Lee Turner established Swoon River Press to house and publish both of their works. 

Inspiration for Creative Living.

That’s Nevin.