In Loving Memory

Photo of Nancy Altfather Garber

Nancy Altfather Garber

December 14, 1934 — April 28, 2026

In Loving Memory of Nancy Altfather Garber It is with heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Nancy Altfather Garber, who left this world peacefully on April 28, 2026, at the age of 91. Nancy was born on December 14, 1934, in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., to Alton Altfather and Verna (Walwyn) Rullman. She was a beacon of love and warmth, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Nancy’s educational journey began as part of the first graduating class of George Mason Jr/Sr High School in Falls Church, VA, in 1952. She further honed her skills at the Washington School for Secretaries, setting the stage for her years as a clerk in the Treasurer’s Office for the City of Falls Church, VA. Her commitment to her work and community was unwavering, and she carried herself with grace and professionalism throughout her career. In January 1985, Nancy married the love of her life, Cleatis Garber, with whom she shared 23 beautiful years until his passing in 2008. Their union was a testament to love and partnership, creating a family and home filled with warmth and laughter. Together, they crafted a life Nancy had always dreamed of and truly deserved. Nancy was blessed with a loving family, including her surviving sons, Bill Moore (Tina) of Colonial Beach, VA, and Ken Moore of Terre Haute, IN, and her cherished niece, Joanne MacDonald (Jim) of Powder Springs, GA. She was also blessed with, and by, her stepson, David Garber of Florida and her stepdaughter, Barbara Garber Austin of Arkansas. She was a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren, 5-each biological & step, and 14 great-grandchildren, 8-biological and 6-step. Each, her own and those of her husband, was equally adored and showered with love and wisdom. She was very close with and will be sorely missed by her husband’s former daughter-in-law Karen Garber of Waynesboro. Nancy was predeceased by her parents, her husband Cleatis, her sister Barbara Miller and her husband Dave, her youngest son Jim Moore, and Cleatis’ grandson Thomas Garber. A woman of faith, Nancy was an active member of the Presbyterian Church, both in Falls Church, VA, and later in Waynesboro, VA, where she found a welcoming spiritual community. She enjoyed singing in the choir and playing in the handbell choir. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her actions and providing her with comfort and strength. She was an active member of P.E.O. chapter BB, often hosting meetings in her home. Outside of her professional and spiritual endeavors, Nancy found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a voracious reader, with a book collection so extensive she could easily have issued library cards. Her love for nature was evident as she delighted in feeding the birds, and the occasional critter, and watching them from the windows of her sunroom as they gathered to enjoy the feast. Nancy was also renowned for her exceptional culinary skills, with her holiday meals eagerly anticipated by family and friends alike. Her home was always a place of welcome, where guests were made to feel comfortable and cherished. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Nancy's extraordinary life at a memorial service on May 1, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 249 S. Wayne Ave, Waynesboro, VA. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to First Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 877, Waynesboro, VA 22980, in honor of Nancy’s devout faith and commitment to her church community. Nancy Altfather Garber’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and faith. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain in the hearts of those she touched throughout her remarkable journey.