Ava Nell Thames Burt, 91, died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Montgomery, Alabama on April 18, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Burt; her parents, Sam and Ava Thames; and her grandson, Andrew Pouncey. 

She is survived by her daughter, Connie Pouncey (Rick); her grandsons, Sam Pouncey (Crystal), and Dave Pouncey (Addison); and her siblings, Ann Cook, Wayne Thames (Mary), Janice Brown, and Barbara Epting (Tom). 

Nell’s life was notable for her love of learning. She held a B.S. in chemistry and M.S. in education from Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Auburn University) and later added an A.A. in mathematics. Her first position after graduation was as a chemist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee. She later moved back home to Conecuh County and began teaching high school science and math. Her greatest joy was in seeing the “light bulb” moment in her students and following them as they pursued successful careers for themselves. She was always proud of her students’ accomplishments. After retirement, she traveled extensively in North America and Europe before moving to Montgomery to be closer to her grandsons. Nell loved her family, the land, and her church, Ramah Baptist, where she was a life-long
member. 

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 21, 2025 at Ramah Baptist Church in Monroe County. Visitation begins at 10 a.m. with services at 11 a.m. There will be a graveside service to follow at Purnell Cemetery in Conecuh County.

Loved ones can honor her memory with donations to Ramah Baptist Church, or a church of their choice, and by continuing the enrichment of both present and future generations.