Nancy was born in McDowell County on August 1, 1951.
She was predeceased by her parents Fred Charles Cook and Nell Buchanan Cook, in-laws Zad and Colleen Sawyer, brother-in-law C.L. Bradley and his wife Debbie. Nancy is survived by her husband James (Jim) Edward Sawyer, their son J. Brad Sawyer and his wife Sarah (Suffolk, VA); grandchildren Kyle and Luke Sawyer (Suffolk, VA); sister Carolyn Beaver and her husband Johnny (Morganton, NC), brother Tom Cook and his wife Susanne (Morganton, NC); brother-in-law Jerry Sawyer and his wife Vicky (Lenior, NC); brother-in-law Zad Sawyer Jr. (Morganton, NC); sister-in-law Bobby Carter and her husband Lance (Gamewell, NC); sister-in-law Shirley Riggan and her husband Jim (Mt. Vernon, ILL.). and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and cousins.
Nancy graduated from Glen Alpine High School in 1970 and met Jim the following year. They immediately knew it was meant to be and married in June of 1972. Brad arrived in 1976 and they built a life together that they loved beyond measure. Nancy retired from J. Iverson Riddle where she was employed for many years. During her time at J. Iverson Riddle, she developed friendships that she treasured. She was a long-time member of First Advent Christian Church, where she enjoyed working with the Children's ministry and being involved in a loving community of church members. She delighted in spending time with her family, grandchildren and any four-legged friend that crossed her path. Nancy will be remembered for her kind heart, loving spirit and gentle soul.
The family will receive friends from 2 to 3 p.m., Sunday, July 20, 2025 at First Advent Christian Church. The funeral will follow at 3 p.m. in the church with Rev. Patrick Bradshaw officiating. Burial will follow in Burke Memorial Park.
Memorial contributions may be made in Nancys name to First Advent Christian Church Childrens Ministry, 211 Lenior Road, Morganton, NC 28655.
Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.
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Leave a tribute for Nancy Cook Sawyer.
Nancy was a dear friend to me at JIRDC these last 6 years since I started there. She was such a joy to be around. She helped me through the hardest time of my life when my husband passed in 2021. She also deeply loved the residents she served at the center and found so much happiness from her work. She would often comment how she loved her job and loved her residents. I will never forget her love and kindness. None of us will.
I worked with Nancy at Drexel Knitting and BSN MEDICAL. She was sweet and kind lady. She was always fun to be around. I am sure she will be missed by all.
Another wonderful soul gained their wings. She will definitely be missed by all who knew her. When she was pulled to my building, there was always a smile & a kind word to residents and staff alike. She was always willing to pitch in & help with whatever she could do, even if it was just a little advice to pass along. My thoughts and prayers are with all the family 🙏🏻
Nancy was such a sweet lady. Heaven has gained an Angel 🕊
Nancy was such a sweet, kind, and funny lady! I enjoyed my many years knowing and working with her at JIRDC! She loved the Residents, Coworkers, and especially her family. To the family, I'm sorry for your tremendous loss. It still doesn't seem real!
Nancy was truly one of the kindest people I’ve ever known. My husband and I shared many special memories with her and with Jim—the wedding of our children, holiday celebrations, bragging to everyone about our children and grandchildren and visits to Morganton. When I lost my husband last year, she was one of the first to contact me. While she will be missed by all of us here, I rejoice in the fact that she is no longer suffering and now with her Lord.
Nancy was a sweet lady was good to work with and a friend. She will be missed.
Nancy was an awesome coworker she never forgot a face and she was a hoot to work with she will be missed. We know you are no longer suffering praying for the family.