Nancy McClure Elliott

Nancy McClure Elliott entered her heavenly home from her sleep Monday, August 23, 2021.

Nancy was known for her peaceful, quiet spirit, which arose from her deep faith. Her love of family and children gave her life meaning and purpose.

Nancy was the middle of five children born to James B. and Lena (Haralson) McClure in Blue Ridge, February 9, 1926, and lived in the area for all but two years of her life. She is preceded to Heaven by her husband, John B. (Buck) Elliott; parents; and four brothers, James, John, Gene and Clinton Lee (Buddy) McClure.

Her daughter, Mary Alice, and son-in-law, Jay Helgesen, survive her as do many beloved nieces and nephews.

Nancy devoted her life to caring for family and children. She lovingly raised her daughter and also loved, helped and taught her brother’s five children who were left without a mother to care for them when the youngest was only six months old. Another family member and one friend have both said that Nancy was like a second mother to them.

She loved all children, but her favorite age to teach was four and five year olds. One of her favorite activities was reading to children. Nancy enjoyed teaching Gilmer County Head Start in Cherry Log for many years. She was a loyal member of the First Baptist Church of Blue Ridge, where she taught Sunday School and Vacation Bible School until she was in her 80s. She only thought of resigning from church teaching when a situation arose where she realized she could drop a child. Nancy was able to hold onto him, but decided maybe it was time to find other ways to serve.

We were blessed to have Nancy with us for 95 years and thankful that for most of that time she was well enough to enjoy living. Nancy was pleased that she was able to remain in the home she loved until four months before passing. She loved her mountain community and was an avid reader of The News Observer and local history books.

Graveside services were held Sunday, September 12, at JP Chastain Memorial Park at 6 p.m. with Dr. Tom Jordan officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Caleb Owenby, Larry Pelfrey, Vernon Owenby, Phillip Arnall and Dan Haymore. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Robert McClure, Christy McClure, Terry McClure and Lee McClure. Nancy requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to a charity of your choosing that focuses on helping children.

Condolences may be sent to the family online at www.akinsfuneralhome.com.

Akins Funeral Home, of Blue Ridge, was in charge of the arrangements.