Al Lassiter Had Long Equipment Career

Allen G. (Al) Lassiter, Jr., who spent 43 years in the logging equipment retail business and who founded and owned AG Lassiter Equipment Corp., Chocowinity, NC, was remembered at a memorial service in Greenville, NC on January 28. Lassiter, 72, died January 25 following several years of declining health.

A native of Halifax County, NC, Lassiter attended East Carolina University before joining the Air Force. In 1969, after completing his military duty, he joined Tidewater Equipment Co. in Washington, NC as sales manager. In the early ‘70s he became general manager of Tidewater’s Florida operations and subsequently relocated to Brunswick, Ga. to manage the company’s multiple Georgia outlets. Lassiter returned to North Carolina (Greenville) in late 1982, joining S&M Equipment Corp. as sales manager. He was promoted to General Manager in 1984. In 1998 he was hired by Franklin Equipment Co. to manage its retail division, based in Chocowinity. Three years later he purchased the Chocowinity real estate and founded his own business as a Tigercat dealer.

Those associated with Lassiter over the years recalled the respect he earned and described him as “a very good businessman” and as “a man of his word.” Well liked, kind, and compassionate, he had a very loyal following of customers and loyal employees.

In his younger years Lassiter liked to race boats and later sponsored other racers. He also appreciated music and loved to play the guitar and trumpet.

According to his daughter, Leah Lassiter King, “AG Lassiter Equipment was his dream and he made many personal sacrifices to keep the business going during lean times.” She notes that he supported many charitable organizations, “most of which he did silently and we learned of his donations only after his passing.” Despite his ailments, Lassiter continued working until his death.

In keeping with Lassiter’s wishes, Leah King and her husband, Ken, have assumed control of the business, which will continue operating with the same name, principles and practices implemented by Lassiter. Todd Sauls will continue to handle day-to-day affairs as product support and service manager; Brian Johnson will continue as parts manager; and Sandy McLawhorn will continue as business manager. The group was associated with Lassiter for a combined total of 87 years.

Sandy McLawhorn and Lassiter were married on December 12, 2014. In addition to her, survivors include two daughters, one stepdaughter and two grandchildren.