Louis Nabors

Louis Burton Nabors of Columbus, MS, passed away peacefully at home on June 3rd, 2023. A private family graveside service will be held at Friendship Cemetery in Columbus. Memorial Gunter Peel Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

Louis was born on July 28th, 1938 in Memphis, TN.  He was the eldest son of Louis Nabors, Sr. and Elizabeth Conley and brother to Patricia, Carolyn and Tom.

Louis’ early years were spent in Raleigh and Memphis, TN.  The family later moved to Columbus, where Louis attended Lee High and Mississippi State. Upon graduation from college, Louis enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard and was stationed in Biloxi.  He was very proud of his service and never tired of recalling his adventures.

On Aug. 5th, 1961, Louis married Gabie Lee Franks.  Together, they raised five boys, Burt, John, Ben, Gabe and Marsh.  Louis was a devoted husband and father and his steady guidance was relied on by his family.  He displayed considerable patience and fortitude during family trips to Gulf Shores and other destinations around the country.

Louis’ business career began early with a paper route around Columbus.  After his stint in the Coast Guard, he became the Ford dealer in Columbus for many years.  After the dealership, Louis became the owner/operator of Sweetgum Trucking, where he traversed the United States in an 18 wheeler.  His trucking experience would later lead him to teach commercial driving at EMCC.  Louis had an extensive knowledge of trucks, highways and transportation.  He loved to tell stories of the people and places he encountered on the road and knew the details about almost every major road in the country.

Louis also enjoyed raising cattle and did so until age forced him to sell off the herd.  He had a deep appreciation for the natural world and diligently taught his sons the value of conservation and stewardship.

Louis was active in many civic and business organizations.  He was a member of the Cattleman’s Association, American Legion and at the time of his passing, was the oldest member of the Columbus Kiwanis Club.

Later years were spent tinkering with trucks and tractors and enjoying the company of his wife and assortment of dogs. Louis was a dependable man of simple tastes and a calm, steady demeanor.  He could be humorous, but also deeply contemplative.  He was a kind and loving husband and father and a fair and honest business man.  He was patient, empathetic and reliable.  His wife and sons are eternally grateful for the countless contributions he made to their lives.