NANCY LAWRENCE WASHINGTON

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family of Nancy Lawrence Washington announces her peaceful departure from this life on June 13, 2026, in Jacksonville, Florida, after a courageous battle with her failing health. She was 74. Born on April 28, 1952, in Georgetown, South Carolina, Nancy was the cherished daughter of the late Willie James and Annie Elethia Washington-Lawrence. She was predeceased by her loving parents, her brother Anthony Willie Lawrence, and her beloved husband of 20 years, William Washington. Nancy's legacy is carried on by her devoted children, Shenika D. Green of Jacksonville, FL, and Leroy Desmond Lawrence of Memphis, TN. She is also survived by her adoring sisters, Mary Odom of Columbia, SC, Carlethia Sparkman of Duncan, SC, Evangelist Lula Lawrence of Georgetown, SC, Dr. Cynthia E. Redmond (John) of Fredericksburg, VA, Reginald Butler (Carol) of Conway, SC, and Lisa Peterson (Sam) of Summerville, SC. Her cherished grandchildren, Essence A. Green and Shemar M. Green, and her great-grandchildren, X'Nya Curry, X'kyra Curry, and Zymeir Green, along with a host of nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, great-grand-nieces, her aunt Carolyn Walker, sister-in-law Viola Lawrence, and numerous cousins and friends, will continue to celebrate her life. Nancy's journey of education began at Choppee High School, where she graduated in 1973. She pursued further education at Georgetown Technical School and obtained her Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) credential, serving with dedication in the nursing field for over 15 years. Nancy also worked at Georgetown International Paper as a production worker, contributing over 25 years of service. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Nancy joined Friendship AME Church at a young age and went on to receive her seminary degree as a preacher. Her melodious voice graced "The Singing Swans," a well-known gospel group, where she was a lead singer. Her Christian faith was deep and lifelong, shaping her generous, joyful spirit and her love for meeting people. Nancy's interests were as varied as her talents. She found joy in reading mystery novels, completing crossword puzzles, watching westerns, and enjoying animal channels. Her laughter and knack for telling jokes brought smiles to those around her. The family will honor Nancy's life with a service on June 29, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Friendship Saint Mary AME Church, 265 Annie Village Road, Georgetown, SC 29440. In the words of her family: "Little did we know that afternoon, God was to call your name... You left us beautiful memories of laughter and your love is still our guide... But God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. With Love forevermore..." A special message from Shenika and Leroy, "Your Big Girl and Son," reads, "When your mom is one of a kind, she sparkles, shines, and is unbreakable in her strength and love... You are now safe in the arms of Jesus…exactly where a Diamond belongs." The family expresses deep gratitude for the care provided by the Park Ridge Nursing Rehabilitation Center and Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville, Florida. The outpouring of love, visits, prayers, and support from friends and extended family has been a source of comfort during this challenging time. Nancy Lawrence Washington will forever be remembered for her unwavering faith, her infectious laughter, and the profound love she shared with all who knew her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved her. May she rest in eternal peace, united with her loved ones in Heaven.