Birth date: Nov 26, 1943 Death date: Oct 18, 2018
Nancy Carolyn Smith, age 74 of Gainesville, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 18, 2018 after a battle with cancer. She was born November 26, 1943 in Logan, West Virginia to Aulus and Irene Borders Steele. Nancy was raise Read Obituary
Martin, Susan & I were so sorry to hear about Nancy's untimely death. We know you were so close and have an idea of how difficult this is for you and your family. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Russ & Susan Armistead
Although I have known Nancy for only 10 years, I held her in highest regard. Whenever Fred and I would visit her and Martin, she was always so welcoming and kind. She showed true southern hospitality. She loved her family very much and always strived to take great care of them. Her 3 granddaughters were so dear to her and she loved being with them. She took great pleasure in visiting their Georgia farm and was always working with Martin to enlarge and improve their property. She was such an organized person, accomplished a lot and took care of many people during her life. Nancy will be sorely missed by many people, but I find comfort in her telling me that she knew where she was going after she passed away...to be with God.
Dear Martin, Eric, Jocelyn, Scott, Brit and Andrea:
First, let me begin by how sadden I am by this tragic loss of your wonderful wife and mother. The times I saw her and spoke with her over the past year, she was her usual loving, kind, positive and spiritual self. This journey was not expected and difficult to accept, but Nancy handled all with grace and dignity.
So many wonderful memories that we shared. I remember my first graduation that I put together and she and Norma Jean helped me several days late in the evening. They loved telling me about the senior pool parties that they hosted together. She was an exemplary teacher who strove to make every single student feel appreciated and succcessful. Who could ever forget her annual leaf project for her freshmen.. I remember seeing stacks of books, thinking there was no way to go through all of them! However, your mom looked at each and everyone one, leaving personal comments of appreciation.
On a personal note, when I had a difficult time conceiving, it was your mom who held my hand and talked to Larry and I about adoption. When we finally had a commitment for our first child, Nancy was there offering support and positive outlook. When our first daughter. Ashley, was born, your mom came out with a group of faculty to see the new baby. Guess who was in tow, you three boys. What a joyful day it was, with my precious baby girl being held by all and you three boys running all over our five acres. I told your mom recently of how special that day was in my memory and she said for her also.
A beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, colleague and friend, taken from us way to soon. I am so thankful that she was able to meet her new granddaughter and share her love. Her faith and passion for life, touched all who had the privilege of knowing her. I count my blessings for having her as a friend💜
Martin:
I have many memories of your loving commentary of Nancy during my time at SIP; a true testament of the love and live that you two shared. May those wonderful memories bring some comfort to you and your family during this difficult time. JoAnn and I send our deepest sympathies for you and your family and will keep you in our prayers.
--JoAnn and Rich Brooderson
Martin,
Ralph and I are so saddened by the loss of your beloved Nancy. Both of you are such special friends in our lives. Smiles come to me when I remember all the times we sat at the dinner table and you and Nancy would share your stories of growing up in Logan County, West Virginia, and your trips to your farm in Georgia. She had a sparkle in her eyes and wonderful laughter. You two seemed to be connected at the hip and could end each others sentences! Nancy had such a positive spirit about her and a deep faith which enabled her to face the challenges she has endured these past thirteen months. You have been such a rock for her and have been there for her every step of the way. I know the days ahead will be difficult; but also know you have friends that love you and are here for you. We have been friends for almost five decades and I have been blessed by your friendship. We have lost a wonderful friend and a true lady. We love you and hurt with you. Please know that you, Scot, Brit, and Erik are in our prayers.
Love, Susan and Ralph Walker
Nancy had a vision for her family and remained true until the end. She was forthright in her speech,but her heart was solid gold. Her family was upmost in her life which she gave to each in her special way. She asked the Lord to let her live long enough to see her last grandchild born, which He did in respect for the godly life that she maintained her entire life.
We were not blood relatives but she and Martin made us feel part of the family. Not only have we lost a very special friend but feel we lost a family member. Our love and prayers go out to all her family for she will be missed but her legacy and principles will remain in the lives of those she touched. We proudly admit that we were two of them.
Ann and Charles Portero
Dear Anneliese: Your grandmother sounds like she was a talented teacher and had a love for learning just like you. I can see you have the same beautiful eyes as your grandmother. May she rest with angels! Love to you and your family, Mrs. Kelleher
