Nancy Colson White passed away on April 20, 2023 at the age of 84. Born on May 10, 1938 in Paducah, KY, she was the daughter of the late Elbert and Ruth Marshall Colson.
Nancy, better known as “Nana” to her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, was a selfless, kind, and loving woman who truly lived to serve and care for others. She deeply loved her family and was deeply loved in return.
Nancy met the love of her life, Dempsey, at Priester Lake in Paducah, Ky. He was soon deployed to Japan and they wed upon his return. Their life together brought them to Florida where they owned a golf and tennis store. This led Nancy to a career in retail where she worked for Gap Inc. as a district manager for many years before settling in North Carolina to be closer to family.
Nancy was beautiful on the inside and out. One of her proudest moments was being the stand in for Debbie Reynolds in “How the West Was Won” while filming in Paducah in 1962. She was always dressed to the nines, no matter the engagement. Nancy had a grateful heart and was always a joy to be around. She enjoyed gardening, baking, and being with her family. Nancy was a member of Hopewell Baptist Church. She will be remembered for her love of Christmas decor, specifically nutcrackers, her famous pecan and cherry pies, “tickle bugs”, and a smile that could light up an entire room.
She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Becky White Strauss, grandchildren Buddy White, Daniel Strauss (Christa), and Karen Storie (Cody), four great-grandchildren, sisters Carolyn Shelbourne (Lynne) and Debbie Williams (Doug) both of Paducah, KY, sister-in law Beckie White Schroeder, and many beloved nieces and nephews. The family wishes to send a sincere and heartfelt thank you to Nancy’s dear friend and caretaker, Lorna, for her care and compassion.
Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years, James Dempsey White Jr., son Jim White, and sister Linda Tanous.
The family has planned a private celebration of life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Amorem hospice in her honor.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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I just wished you a Happy Birthday Yesterday; had no idea you had died. We had alot of fun together, shared alot of laughter and enjoyed friends and family for a very long time. Rest In Peace, you will not be forgotten.... Vic
I had the pleasure to work for Dempsey, Nancy and Becky at Golf and Tennis. Nancy always had a smile on her face. She loved to be around people. Nancy would treat everyone as family. She will be missed. When working with Dempsey and Nancy at Golf and Tennis you can see the love they have for each other.
So sorry for your loss, sending prayers
Debbie we are so sorry for your loss. We will keep your family in our prayers.
I enjoyed the time I got to spend with her. She sure knew how to make others feel special. Thankful for the opportunity of knowing her and her family.
I met Nancy in 1976….my family had just moved to Florida and I became besties with her daughter. As a young adult, I looked up to Nancy….she was fun, sweet, joyful, hard working and kind. She would make favorite foods of mine when I visited…always facilitating my friendship with Becky. Nancy was a very committed and loving parent…she loved and nurtured her two children…and was a loving wife. I admired her work ethic…she was a cheerful hard worker. Nancy will be missed. It is a pleasure to call her my friend.
You were a Great Aunt, Mom, Grandma & Kind Human Being!!! You will be forever missed! Love, Kevin & Becky
Loved Mrs Nancy!!! She always smiled and sooo kind!! Love to Becky, Daniel and Karen!!!