Nancy Saunders Shearer

Nancy Saunders Shearer, age 86 formerly of Rocky Mount died Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at Friendship Manor in Roanoke. She was born September 28, 1924 one of five children to Robert and Myrtle Saunders. Nancy completed her nursing degree at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. She married, William Newton Shearer, Sr. on February 12, 1949 and remained his devoted wife for 26 years. William or “Pop” as he was affectionately called by his family died in 1975. After her husband’s death, with great determination and steadfastness, Nancy recertified her nursing certificate, working in an assisted living facility, at a factory in Natural Bridge, and finally as a nurse at Hollins College until 1986. Her abiding love, besides her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and step-children, were gardening, flower arranging, decorating her home with collectibles and antiques, and cooking. She was the center of life at her home which she named “Greenleaves” on LaMarre Dr., in Hollins, where she lived until September 2007. She was also active in her church, her garden club at the local and state level, and was a member of the Daughters of the American Colonies. She is survived by her sister, Myrtle Saunders Hunt; nephews, John and Chip; first cousin, Jim Ellis and his wife Becky who have been her devoted caretakers since 2006. She is also survived by her stepson, William N. Shearer, Jr., of Charleston, WV age 90 and his daughter, Stephanie and son, William Newton Shearer III and their children, Leigh, Emily, Stephen and Erika. Also surviving are Henrietta Simpson Shearer, daughter of John and Betty Shearer, Dixie Shearer, widow of John Douglas Shearer, Cabell “Robin” Robinson, sister of William and Robin’s children, Jeffrey and John. “Nan” and Pop’s family affectionately called her was beloved by all for her graciousness, helpfulness and kindness. She has a quick wit and contagious smile. A gift to Stephanie and her family illustrated how Nan felt about her family, though far flung as time passed. Our family is like the branches of a tree. We may grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one. Each of us will always be a part of the other. Graveside services will be conducted from High Street Cemetery 2 p.m. Saturday with Rev. Stewart Royce officiating. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.