Nunnally, M.D., Lester The Central Florida medical community lost one of its pioneers with the passing of Lester Carol Nunnally. Our beloved 'Pops', as he was affectionately known after becoming a grandfather, left us early Thursday morning, April 14th, with his loved ones gathered around him, after a well-fought battle with cancer. Les was born in Memphis on October 28th, 1930, to Guy and Olga Nunnally. He was the youngest of four boys, and the heartbreaking accidental death of his brother, Alford, seeded a passion in him to become a surgeon. Les graduated from the University of Tennessee School of Medicine in December 1953. During that time, he often moonlighted at St. Mary's in Knoxville, and it was there he met a cute little nursing student who would become the love of his life - Jeanne Creekmore. They were married June 12, 1954, and soon after began their 62-year marital adventure with a two-year stay in the South Pacific while he was stationed in Guam as a Captain in the Air Force. It was there that their daughter, Rebecca, was born. In 1957, they returned to the states and settled in Houston, where Les entered the prestigious cardiovascular surgical residency program at Baylor College of Medicine under the direct training of Dr. Michael DeBakey while Jeanne worked as a nurse at MD Anderson and Hermann Memorial hospitals. After he completed his residency, he moved his family to Orlando and joined a surgical practice as an opportunity to raise his daughter in a climate similar to where she was born. In 1964, he performed the first open-heart surgery in Central Florida at what was then known as Orange Memorial Hospital, and in 1970 performed the first coronary bypass procedure in our area. His reputation as a skilled heart surgeon became widely known, and in 1970 he formed Cardiovascular Surgeons, P.A., a practice that still exists today. Les was devoted to his work, and enjoyed over 30 years treating his patients and working with the professionals at ORMC, Lucerne Hospital and Florida Hospital. After retiring in 1992, Les relished being a grandfather and golf aficionado - he could frequently be seen on many a golf course around the area with his golf buddies Hutch and Jerry. Les was also an avid reader and Internet researcher, and his inquisitive mind allowed him to shift his focus to becoming a very knowledgeable and talented geopolitical analyst. Les also enjoyed researching and planning legendary family vacations both in the U.S. and around the world. In 2001, the Mayor proclaimed May 29th Lester C. Nunnally, M.D. Day. Les was a proud member of The American College of Surgeons, The American College of Cardiology, and The Southern Thoracic Surgical Association. Les leaves behind his cherished wife of 62 years, Jeanne; adored daughter Rebecca Nunnally Amidon; beloved grandson Jordan Voght; much loved nephew David Gragg; sisters-in-law Mickey Gragg of Boynton Beach and Edna Croley of Port Charlotte; many cousins, nieces and nephews, and his dear friend Dr. Pat Quijada. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Alford, Guyton and Richard. A private memorial service for family will be held Saturday, April 23rd, at Woodlawn Memorial Park and Funeral Home. An informal Celebration of his Life will be held the following Saturday, April 30th, at 10:00 at Conway United Methodist Church, 3401 S. Conway Road, Orlando, 32812, with a reception to follow at his daughter's house. Directions to her home will be provided at the service. In lieu of flowers, Les and his family would be most grateful for any remembrance in his name to VITAS Healthcare (Vitas.com) or the University of Tennessee School of Medicine, 910 Madison, Suite 1002, Memphis, TN 38163. Also available is an online guestbook at www.woodlawnfuneralhomegotha.com that will allow you to share photos and sentiments. A talented surgeon, Les was also gifted with a capacity to recognize what was important in life and did his best to teach that to his family. He was an exceptional man who lived his life well. Arrangements entrusted to Woodlawn Memorial Park & Funeral Home, Gotha, FL 407-293-1361.

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Published by Orlando Sentinel on Apr. 19, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Lester Nunnally

Sponsored by The Orlando Sentinel.

35 Entries

Linnea Pilcher

March 12, 2017

I'm so sorry I just found out. I worked with and admired Dr. Nunnally for 20 years on and off when I was inFlorida. He helped so many people and was a mentor for all the interns and nurses he worked with. I am so sorry for your loss!

April 30, 2016

I want to thank you all for this wonderful man, who in July 25 or 26 , 1966 was in Florida Sanatarian hospital at the right time and place to save my mothers life. Mrs Irene Burket was her name. She came there to be with me when I had my 1st child. She collapsed in the waiting room, while I was in labor. She was taken to E R . Dr Nunnally was there or came to help. She had an anurism around her heart. He save her life. She live to be 79 years old. We are grateful for Dr Nunnally life and his service. I am one of her 4 children. Alice Dressner of Eustis Fl.

Laura Lyell

April 28, 2016

A pioneer in his field , a devoted family man and a gentleman in the truest sense of the word. He touch so many lives in so many ways. It was a privilege and honor to have known him. My deepest sympathies to all that grieve his loss.

H. E. "Gene" Gross

April 24, 2016

I came to Orlando in 1971, and Dr. Nunnally was already well known for his excellence as a cardiovascular surgeon. I shared many cases with him until his retirement, and always admired his talents in the operating room, and his wonderful post operative skills. He was one of the best doctors that I have ever known, and it was an honor to have worked with him.

He will be greatly missed.

jackie littleford

April 23, 2016

May he rest in peace -- a wonderful and talented man.
My love & prayers, Jackie Littleford

April 22, 2016

My only memory of Dr. Nunnally as an 18 year old xray student at Orange Memorial, is still vivid after 45 years. More than once, seeing him sit next to his open heart patient in ICU at night.

He was an example of a doctor with true compassion.

Aaron Hendryx

April 19, 2016

So sorry to hear of Dr Nunnally passing. He was a kind man, and I enjoyed my time working for the family. Praying for you all.

Charmaine Frederick

April 19, 2016

I had the privilege of working with Les Nunnally for many years. He was my mentor and steward of my clinical practice. He will be missed by many people. Jean and Becky..my thoughts and prayers are with you.

April 19, 2016

Jordan,

I know how much you loved your grandfather. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please express my condolences to your family, especially your grandmother. I have such fond memories of her.

Warmest of regards,
Kelly Johnson
Lake Highland Prep.

Carolyn Carlson

April 19, 2016

I was saddened today when I learned of Dr. Nunnally's passing.I treasure the years that I worked for him. Jeanne and Becky, may God be with you during this difficult time.
Love,

Juan J Herràn

April 19, 2016

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you. Dr Les ( like we affectionally called him) will always be remembered as a true gentleman and excellent physician. We all learned so much from him.

Franklin Tew

April 19, 2016

Les Nunnally. I will never forget the name nor the man. As a cardiologist, I had the opportunity to work with Les taking care of people with heart problems. Simply stated: Les was the best. He was more than an outstanding surgeon. He was an excellent clinician who cared about patients, their families and the nurses and hospital staff members who helped comfort and heal those we were privileged to serve. I looked at every one of the 145 pictures in the photo gallery. He was truly one of a kind. I am saddened at the passing of a great man but feel blessed that I was given the privilege to work with him. Rest in peace, Les. You earned it. Love to Jeanne, Becky and family.

Mike McFadden

April 19, 2016

I met Les in the early seasons of the Magic when he had season tickets the row in front of us. We looked forward to seeing him and the family at games. He was without a doubt the most unpretentious person I had ever met as it was only through many game-time conversations that we learned of his very successful career. My condolences to his family on his passing. May he rest in peace.

Scott Crumlich

April 19, 2016

My sister Jeanne and I are so sorry to see the passing of Dr. Nunnally. He did successful bypass surgery on our father, Ron, with Dr. Garamy. Our father must have been one of his first bypass patients. This extended our fathers life many years and we are forever grateful. Our father thought the world of him and always talked about his caring demeanor. He will be missed and our condolences go out to his family at this sorrowful time.

Jody Wright

April 19, 2016

I worked many years and long hours with Dr. Nunnally in the OR at ORMC. He saved many, many patients' lives. I will always have the utmost respect for him. My deepest condolences to his family. Rest in Peace, Dr. Nunnally!

Mickey Eagle

April 18, 2016

I am sad to find out about the loss of Dr. Nunnally. I first met him when I worked in surgery at Orange Memorial Hospital. I admired his work so much that I got up the nerve to ask him if he had any openings in his office. After I was hired by him, I learned so much more than patient care or surgical procedures. I learned what a big heart he and his wife Jeanne have. They took me under their wing as if I was part of their family. I will never forget their generosity when my Mother passed away as well as all the other nice things they both did for me. He was a great teacher and never minded taking extra time to make me feel comfortable about what I was doing. He got a big laugh when Jeanne and I told him about our escapades while riding in the police car at Orlando Police Department, with my sweet husband. I know he and Harold are up there right now, talking about it. I still think of both Jeanne and Becky often and have wonderful memories of that time of my life. I rejoice knowing that he is in God's hands right now.I know he will be there to greet all of us one day. God's peace and blessings to Jeanne, Becky and Jordan. "His eye is on the sparrow.....and I know he watches you."

Wendy Wander Mize

April 17, 2016

My dad, Jerry Wander, was a good friend and fellow golfer. He thought highly of Les, as he called him, and his respected medical career. I last saw Lestor at my mother's celebration of life in June of 2014. It was a comfort to dad to see an old friend. My dad died just three days prior to Lestor. I know that they are reunited in a more peaceful place, where the fairways are lush and the winds forgiving. My sincerest sympathy to you at this time.

Kenly Boyett

April 16, 2016

A very kind man with a big heart. Sending prayers and hugs to your family during this time of sorrow.

April 16, 2016

thanking GOD for you, for the smiles you brought, and the sweet blessing of friendship we enjoyed...Mickey

Brenda Ball

April 16, 2016

I was a flower girl along with my cousin Betty for my Aunt Jeanne and Uncle Carol. I have looked up to and been inspired by my uncle for many years. He was inspirational in my going back to school to perform the work I do. I loved him dearly, and fortunately had a chance to tell him so. Thank you for all you did for so many people in your lifetime. You are truly a hero. Brenda Ball, niece

Cathy Carter

April 16, 2016

We are sad for your loss but privileged to have spent a fine Easter holiday with your family. I had a lovely chat with a kind, intelligent gentleman and it was an honor to be in his presence. Our thoughts are with you as you say your farewells.
Cathy Carter and Roger Graves

Guyton Nunnally

April 15, 2016

As your earth-bound loving family and friends are sad and grieve your passing WE can rejoice that you have rejoined your Heaven-bound family. Olga and Guy, mom and dad, and brothers Guyton, Alford and Richard and other Nunnally generations. Love and Happiness in Heaven is for Ever and Ever, Amen!

April 15, 2016

David Parslow

April 15, 2016

I had the pleasure of cutting Dr. Nunnally's hair on and off for the past 25 years. I got to know a man who was a true intellectual, dedicated doctor, strong family man, and someone who treated everyone with respect. I watched and listened to him talk about his family and what they meant to him, especially his lovely wife Jeanne. His accomplishments were many in medicine but his family always came first. I look back on our many conversations throughout the years and realize how lucky I am to have known this extraordinary man. I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you in this very difficult time. God Bless.

April 15, 2016

There is not enough space or words to properly honor and thank him for the influence and change he made in my life. Thank you for being there for me.From one veteran to another, I salute you Dr Nunnally. Gone but never forgotten....
With much respect,
Kevin Boerner

Jordan Voght

April 15, 2016

Papa,
I really don't even know where to begin...You were so many things to me, a grandfather, a father, a teacher, a friend...If I listed all of them it would easily take up this entire book. You taught me the value of education, what it was to have a work ethic, and how to treat a lady and be a gentleman. You always were there for me no matter what it was for, and always looked past my personal flaws. I look around and everything that I know, have achieved, and will achieve is because of you. Whether we were eating sushi together, going to the range, or yelling at each other about politics, we always had a wonderful time together. The world will never be the same without you, the sun just won't be so bright. However, I know for a fact I wouldn't be able to appreciate half the things in my life (or even have them for that matter) had it not been for you. I will think of you and everything you have taught me every day for the rest of my life and carry you with me throughout this journey. I hope one day to make you proud and allow you to see some return on your multiple investments. I left a $10 in your left front pocket, so for once the first round is on me. Just make sure and save me a glass and have some good stories because we will meet again one day. Vaya con dios mi amigo. We all love you and miss you so much.

Jordan Voght

April 15, 2016

My sincere condolences He was a fine gentleman.

Sincerely,

William Mahaffey

Anita Blair

April 15, 2016

So sorry your family is going thru this now. While death is a part of life it is never easy when it comes to someone close to you, it really hits home, I know from experience. My uncle was so kind, always liked seeing him and his family, wish I could have done more of that through the years. I miss my dad everyday and thank god for all the pictures and other memories to hold on to, that is my wish for your family. Peace to all of you.Love, Anita

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