Lieutenant Commander Dr. Joseph L. Nettles

The Journey of Lieutenant Commander Dr. Joseph L. Nettles Lieutenant Commander Dr. Joseph Lee Nettles, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, uncle, dentist, and veteran, departed this earthly life peacefully in Mobile, Alabama, on October 10, 2024. He was born in Fairhope, Alabama, on January 11, 1954, to Mrs. Glady Fore Nettles and Mr. Arthur Lee Nettles. He accepted Christ at a very early age, joining Grace Temple Holiness Church, and later Corpus Christi Church in Mobile, Alabama. Dr. Nettles attended Hillsdale Elementary School, Shaw High School (graduated with honors), and Jarvis Christian College (Summa Cum Laude). He received several academic scholarships, including the United States Navy scholarship, to attend the University of Alabama Dental School. Dr. Nettles earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in May 1981. He served in the United States Navy as a Lieutenant Commander Dental Officer from 1976 to 1991. Dr. Nettles' commitment to his country and the health of his community was unwavering. He served the United States Navy with bravery and leadership, earning several military awards. His duty stations included Officer Indoctrination School in Newport, Rhode Island; Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, California; Subic Bay and Cubi Point Navy Bases in the Philippines; Navy Training Center in Orlando, Florida; Navy Air Station Pensacola, Florida; Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Florida; and Navy and Marine Reserve Center in Mobile, Alabama. Dr. Nettles was active in his community, church, and various volunteer activities. He was a member of several military organizations, including the Military Officers Association of America, Naval Aviation Museum Benefactors, American Legion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot Museum Foundation, VetFriends, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Veterans of Foreign Wars, and the American Dental Association. Beyond his military career, Dr. Nettles was a guiding light in his community for over 50 years. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the healthcare needs of Mobile County were met, especially in the realm of oral health. His wisdom and expertise, along with his loving and kind heart, extended to his family. He encouraged his children, siblings, nieces, and nephews to pursue their goals in both college and the military. Dr. Nettles' legacy is one of ultimate service, love, and encouragement. He touched the lives of many, always promoting good health and the importance of leaving the world a better place. His commitment to his family, friends, and country was unparalleled, and his absence leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him. As we mourn the loss of Lieutenant Commander Dr. Joseph Nettles, we celebrate a life well lived. He will always be remembered as a true patriot, a skilled and kind dentist, and a loving family man. Rest in peace, Doctor. Your legacy will continue to inspire.
Dr. Nettles is Survived By: His devoted wife, Dr. Dana Samuels Nettles, with whom he was married for over 43 years. He is preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Gladys Fore Nettles; his father, Mr. Arthur Lee Nettles; one brother, Mr. David Lee Nettles; and one sister, Mrs. Cindy Nevills. He is also survived by his loving sister, Mrs. Ann Marie Edwards, and his children, Mr. Joseph Samuels Nettles, Mr. Nicholas Lee Nettles (Bano), and Dr. Kimberly Nettles. His mother-in-law, Mrs. Martha Samuels, three brothers-in-law, Dr. James Samuels Womack, Mr. Michael Samuels, and Mr. Sterlin Williams, and one sister-in-law, Mrs. Priscilla Williams, also survive him. Additionally, he leaves behind two granddaughters, Miss Shanzay Rizvi and Miss Ava Nettles, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
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