Henry Willis Nance, 91, of Bladenboro passed away on April 30, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Alda Warwick Nance & Emory Malcolm Nance.
Willis leaves behind his faithful partner of 70 years and the love of his life, Geraldine Lewis Nance, one son, Willis Nance, Jr. and wife Victoria of Clarkton, granddaughter, Elkin Victoria Nance of Bali, grandson, Henry Willis Nance, III “Will” and wife Allison McDowell Nance of Cape Carteret, and one great grandson, Henry Willis Nance, IV, one sister, Hester Nance Bowen of Bladenboro, Brother-in-law, Livingston Lewis and several nieces and nephews.
Willis was a member of First Baptist Church Bladenboro. In 1950, after his high school graduation, Willis enlisted in the US Navy and served as a cook until 1953. In 1954, he opened a drive-in bar-b-que restaurant. He was best known for his famous Nance BBQ and sliced BBQ sandwiches. He and his family worked at the drive-in for 15 years. To this day people remember the good times at the drive in. Willis had numerous other occupations during his life; owner/operator of Nance Septic Tank, chicken farmer, long-distance truck driver, and Bladenboro town maintenance director. He always gave 100% effort to everything he did. Willis worked hard all of his life and enjoyed working and serving others. He was a selfless person and many have said of him, “he would give you the shirt off of his back”.
Willis had many friends that he treasured and held dear. He loved the game of golf and there were many stories among his buddies. Willis also enjoyed hunting and fishing. After retiring, Willis’ health began to decline. Willis held his family dear and loved spending time with them. His grandchildren were the apples of his eye and he was even more proud when he held his great
grandson, Henry, for the first time.
The funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Bladenboro on Saturday, May 4, 2024 at 11:00 am. The visitation will follow the service also in the church sanctuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to First Baptist Church Bladenboro, Post office Box 176, Bladenboro, NC 28320.
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