Nancy Leona Smith Carson, age 88, of Shelbyville, passed from this life Friday, December 1, 2023, at The Heart Remembers with loved ones at her side after an extended illness.
Nancy was a native of Bedford County, born on January 7, 1935, to the late William B. Smith and Carrie Sons Smith and; along with her parents she was preceded in death by: beloved husband, Coach Bryan Edwards Carson; grandson, David Garner Pitner; and brother, William Gene Smith.
She was a graduate of Shelbyville Central High School class of 1953, as queen and valedictorian of the class along with being a band majorette. She started her career in the banking industry shortly after high school and retired after many years, finishing with Dominion Corporation.
She was a charter member and lifelong member of Faith Baptist Church. She was a kind, gentle, and loving soul that was strong and steadfast in her faith. She was also a volunteer Pink Lady that brought her much joy as she served others. Her strong desire to help others was even seen late in life as she tried to assist many of the residents she lived among at The Heart Remembers. She always sought to find the good in others.
She had an infectious smile and quick wit. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother with family being the most important thing to her. She had an outgoing spirit and enjoyed people, but equally enjoyed quiet time at home.
She is survived by: daughters, Lynn Carson Clanton and Korley Cannon and husband Blake; grandson, Carson Clanton and wife Charley; sisters, Peggy Joann Smith, and Barbara Lois Coop and husband Ronnie; sister-in-law, Sandra Smith; nieces, Carrie Crocker and husband Jamie, Peggy Biagini and husband Jim, Mary Lollis and husband Bart, Susan Howell and husband Mark, and Karen Hadley and husband Don; along with a host of great nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held 1 p.m. Thursday, December 7, 2023, in the chapel of Doak-Howell Funeral Home with Pastor Don Hadley officiating. Burial will follow at Roberts Cemetery.
Visitation with the family will be held prior to funeral service beginning 11 a.m. Thursday, at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be made to Faith Baptist Church, Normandy United Methodist Church, or Shelbyville First United Methodist Church.
Doak-Howell Funeral Home is serving the family.