Fred L. Nesler, 81, passed away on May 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on August 2, 1944, in Foley, Alabama, Fred was raised on a working farm, where he learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and taking pride in what you do. Those lessons guided him throughout his life. He lived a life defined by service, hard work, and a deep love for people.

Fred worked at Colonial Bakery as a young man, later raised cattle, worked at General Tire, and built a successful career as a real estate broker. In 1993, he answered a higher call to serve and was elected to the Kentucky House of Representatives, where he faithfully served his community for 20 years. He later worked with the Kentucky Department of Agriculture and continued helping others long after retirement.

But titles never defined Fred. What mattered most to him was his family, his friends, and his community. If someone needed help, Fred showed up. He believed in treating everyone with respect, keeping your word, and helping others whenever you could.

Fred was known for his strong presence, booming voice, quick wit, and genuine heart. He loved his family deeply and especially cherished time with his grandchildren, whether teaching life lessons, working outside, or letting them put ribbons in his hair. His Christian faith guided his life, and he was a member of Lone Oak First Baptist Church. He was raised at Liberty Baptist Church by his parents, Norman and Ruth Nesler, who instilled in him the values he carried throughout his life.

He loved gardening, cooking, caring for his home, and gathering family and friends around food. During his years in Frankfort, he became well known for his "session beans," cooking pot after pot of white beans and cornbread for anyone who wanted a meal and fellowship.

Fred had a way of making people feel seen and important. He was a natural leader, a great listener, and a servant at heart. He signed his handwritten notes—always in blue felt-tip pen—"Your friend, Fred," and that is exactly how he lived his life.

Fred was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Norman and Ruth Nesler; his brother, Mark Nesler; grandson, Kyle Lee Simpson; and nephews, J Nesler and Kyler Nesler.

He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Tammy Nesler; his brother, Joel Nesler (Sally); daughters, Kim Isbell (Bob), Kelly Hayden (Larry), Beth Mohon (Brian), Jessica Jones-Walker (Brent), and Amanda Jones (Michael Ross); grandchildren, Kacy Hale (Terry), Megan Mathis, Tara Isbell (Emily), Erica Isbell Vonschoech (Shawn), Tyler Reed (Geri), Beau Mohon, Kaitlyn Isbell, Briley Mohon, Breece Mohon, Carter Carraway, Xander Wilson, and Willow Walker; great-grandchildren, Skylar Hale, Marshall Hale, Ellis Isbell, and Ira Isbell; great-great-grandchildren, Hendrix Sulver and Emerson Hale (on the way); niece, Mykala Nesler Brown (Daniel); nephews, Jody Nesler (Beth), Mako Nesler (Heather), and Charly Nesler (Amanda); great-niece, Olivia Nesler; great-nephews, Nate Nesler, Levi Nesler (Lanie), Luke Nesler, Carter Jett, Spencer Brown and Owen Brown; along with many extended family members and dear friends who loved him deeply.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Visitation will be held Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Byrn Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Byrn Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Liberty Baptist Cemetery. Dr. Micah Spicer will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: Liberty Baptist Cemetery Fund, c/o Randy Rives, 426 Alvin Dr., Boaz, KY 42027, New Pathways for Children, P.O. Box 10, Melber, KY 42069 or Fred Nesler Scholarship Fund, c/o Rotary Club of Mayfield, P.O. Box 485, Mayfield, KY 42066