PADI and the entire dive industry mourn John Nesbit, a respected and highly admired dive retailing advocate. His passing is a major loss to friends who loved him and business associates who worked with him.
His life, unexpectedly cut short in a tragic accident on Sunday, 7 August 2005, will be remembered as vibrant, animated and significant.
John G. Nesbit, a native of Greensboro, NC and US Marine Corps Veteran, attended High Point College and University of North Carolina at Greensboro majoring in History and later graduating from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business Management. Nesbit first stepped into the public spotlight while working in television for fourteen years at WFMY-TV2, the Greensboro area’s local CBS affiliate. As Associate Producer and Cohost of the station’s Good Morning Show, he quickly adapted to taking stage in front of a camera. John’s natural charisma shined through and his down home charm and sense of humor provided an instant connection with audiences.
In 1987, John and wife, Mary Kaye, set their horizons on the dive industry when they opened up a PADI Five Star facility, Island Hoppers Dive Center, in their home town of Greensboro. The Nesbits immersed themselves in the industry and quickly became active contributors to PADI’s Retailer Advisory Committee and DEMA’s Promotion Advisory Committee. Their passion for scuba diving was clear as were their intentions to leave the industry in better condition than they found it.
With this in mind, Nesbit accepted the position as Manager of the PADI Retail Association in 1994 and moved with Mary Kaye to Southern California. John brought authenticity and credibility to the retail association because he had walked the walk for several successful years and brought this experience to bear in a leadership role in the diving industry. In over 11 years of working for PADI’s International Retail and Resort Association, John’s energy never faded. It was his enthusiasm for the business of diving that led him on a crusade across America and overseas conducting business education seminars and workshops with the members.
John greeted each member with a hearty hand-shake and warm smile, as he exemplified customer service through his actions everyday. It was his belief in the future of the diving industry and optimistic attitude that drove him to share his philosophy with others.
John will be missed, but his life will be remembered and celebrated as a noble and honest contribution to growing an industry, educating professionals, sharing a dream and making people laugh. The PADI Family extends its deepest condolences to Mary Kaye Nesbit, Andy Nesbit and the family and friends who were lucky enough to know John over the years.
The Nesbit family will hold a memorial service locally and PADI will host a memorial service in Southern California in approximately three weeks.
For further details or to send personal condolences, please contact PADI Human Resources Department at +1 800 729 7234, ext. 2231, 30151 Tomas Street, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688.
