Nesbitt Construction founder dies at 82

Last edited 11:11 a.m., Oct. 27, 2025 [Editor’s note: More information has been added.]

The founder of Springfield-based Nesbitt Construction Inc. has died.

William "Bill" Nesbitt died Oct. 22 at age 82, according to an obituary provided by his family. His cause of death was not disclosed.

Nesbitt founded Nesbitt Construction in 1977, and son Michael became president in 2017 and owner in 2022. 

Michael Nesbitt said in a provided statement that his father mentored many in the industry and was a business figure worth emulating.

"He devoted his time on projects to doing it the right way, often spending his own time and money to build something right, as opposed to the way it was drawn or thought up," Nesbitt said of his father. "When it came to his employees, he realized he was providing a paycheck for them to support their own family. The employees always came before the bottom line, often finding odd jobs or projects just to keep them working, even if it cost the company money in the long run. This extended by providing them with time off to support their children’s activities, similar to what he was able to do with my brother and me."

Civically, Bill Nesbitt was involved with organizations including the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, Springfield Contractors Association and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

SCA board President Grant Miller, who also owns Springfield Glass Co., issued condolences to Nesbitt's family in a statement provided to Springfield Business Journal.

"We are sorry for their loss and grateful that we were able to enjoy Bill through all his contributions to the Springfield community," Miller said in the statement. "He served as president or chairman of numerous charitable and industry organizations, including the Springfield Contractors Association, and I consider it a gift to have worked with him in the SCA and on numerous building projects. He was a joy to be with and a man of high character."

Nesbitt Construction ranked No. 14 on Springfield Business Journal's 2025 list of the area's largest commercial general contractors, with 2024 billings of $12.1 million as the ranking criteria. The company reported a $6 million backlog and 17 employees as of April 28, and the list noted recent projects including the Nixa High Pointe Elementary storm shelter, Kissee office building, Great Escape Beer Works and the Greene County Drug Court.

Nesbitt's visitation is scheduled for 4 p.m. on Oct. 28 at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home, followed by a celebration of life at a later date.

"To make a long story short, Bill loved his family, work and the social interactions of everyday life," his obituary reads. "Always quick with a joke or story to tell, Bill’s outgoing and joyful attitude will be missed by many across the community."