Donald Lee Nettles Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald “Don” Lee Nettles, Sr., age 82,who passed away on June 4, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones. Don was born on August 24, 1943, in Marianna, Florida. As a child his family moved to Chipley, where he grew up and graduated from Chipley High School. It was there that he met the love of his life, Margaret “Meg” Rhodes. Their high school romance blossomed into a marriage that would span more than six decades. In 1963, Don and Meg moved to Tallahassee, Florida, where they lived and raised their family. Together they welcomed two children, Donald Lee Nettles, Jr. and Deidre Nettles Vick. Don’s professional career began in the private insurance industry, where he worked for Gulf Life for many years and consistently earned recognition as a top salesperson. In 1975, he joined the State of Florida Department of Insurance, where he advanced to the position of Bureau Chief. Don dedicated 35 years of service to the State of Florida and retired from the Department of Financial Services in 2010. Don lived a life defined by love, laughter, kindness, and hard work. Everyone who knew Don knew he loved being where the action was, enjoyed being around people, and was always helping others. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel welcome. While Don enjoyed many things throughout his life, nothing meant more to him than his family. He took great pride in his children and treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren. Watching them grow and celebrating their accomplishments brought him immense joy. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas E. Nettles and Mary Nettles, and his younger sister, Sara Jo Malpas. Don is survived by his devoted wife, Meg Nettles; his son, Donald Lee Nettles, Jr., of Tallahassee, Florida; his daughter, Deidre Vick (Rodney), of Stuart, Florida; his grandchildren, Cameron Vick (Kira), Kailey Vick, and Bronson Nettles; and his great-granddaughter, Sadie Waterman. Don will be remembered for his outgoing personality, great sense of humor, unwavering dedication to his family, and his ability to make the most of every day. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he shared so freely. Though our hearts are broken we find comfort in the memories we hold and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. A life well lived, a husband devoted, a father proud, and a grandfather cherished. The family will receive friends, Friday, June 19, 2026 from 10:30 AM, until 11:00 AM, at Bevis Funeral Home Chapel, the memorial service will follow at 11:00 AM. Todd Wahlquist is assisting the family with their arrangements (850-385-2193, www.bevisfh.com).

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Donald Lee Nettles Sr.

August 24, 1943 - June 4, 2026