***Courtesy post for Boles Funeral Home of Seven Lakes, North Carolina***
Albert T. Nesmith, lovingly known as Al, and Tommy by his family, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025, in West End, North Carolina. He was a devoted husband, brother, father, uncle, Vietnam veteran and dedicated public servant.
Al was the cherished husband of Eliza Garland Nesmith ('Liza), with whom he shared 42 years of a marriage rooted in love and partnership. After graduating from LaGrange High School, in Lake Charles, La., he received a basketball scholarship to McNeese State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He taught high school science for a year before he was drafted into military service and served three tours in Vietnam as part of the U.S. Army Adjutant General Corps. After his military service, Al continued to serve others through his work with the Army's Morale, Welfare and Recreation programs at installations across Texas, Arizona, Virginia, Hawaii and Germany. He was a visionary leader who could turn a germ of an idea into a lasting legacy, such as a 400-acre 4-H camp at Fort Hood, Texas.
Al found joy in fishing, a passion cultivated during his childhood on the bayous of Louisiana. He very patiently taught younger children the art of fishing, sharing lessons learned in his childhood from his father.
Al honed his gardening skills in Manassas, Va., by building colorful flower gardens and planting vegetables. He especially loved planting 200-300 bulbs each fall, for their beauty in the spring.
Later in life, Al became an avid cat lover and cared for 19 feline companions over the years. He was a cat magnet and loved to be covered in cats. Now, he will be especially missed by Callie and Baby.
Albert T. Nesmith will be remembered for his devotion to family, country and community.
In addition to his wife of 42 years, ‘Liza Garland Nesmith, Al is survived by his daughter, Lori Bridges (Darren), of Russellville, Mo.; son, Paul Nesmith, of Jefferson City, Mo.; sister, Edna Carol Lambert (Neal), of Perkinson, Miss.; four nieces and nephews, three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren; and close friends, Brandy and Landon Wildes.
Al was preceded in death by his father, James Albert Nesmith; mother, Lucille Lanier Nesmith; and sister, Virginia Nesmith Smith.
A service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Al’s memory to charities supporting veterans or animal welfare causes.
May he rest in eternal peace.
Online condolences may be made at www.BolesFuneralHome.com.