On November 3, 2026, family and friends said goodbye to Ray Nance, but they celebrate a life exceptionally well lived. Ray's eighty years were filled with service to his country, hard work, devotion to his family, faith in Jesus Christ, and a genuine love for people. Though he will be deeply missed, the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the love he gave so freely will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Louis Nance and Dorothy Spencer Nance, his brother, Allen Nance, and sister-in-law and Kim Nance.

Ray was married to the love of his life, Pina Hylton Nance, for 57 wonderful years. Together they built a strong and loving family that remained the center of his life. Their marriage was a testament to faith, commitment, and enduring devotion.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pina Nance; his children, Lynn Blaylock, Ann (Jonathan) Summers, Denver (Mandi) Nance, and Ashley Nance; his brother, Dwayne (Nancy) Nance; 14 grandchildren, 6 step-grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and 3 step-great-grandchildren, along with many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A man of deep faith, Ray was a devoted Christian and disciple of Jesus Christ for 53 years. His unwavering belief in God guided his life, shaped his character, and influenced countless people through his kindness, integrity, and servant's heart.

Ray honorably served his country through multiple branches of the United States military. During the Vietnam War era, he served in the U.S. Army as a lineman in Vietnam, helping establish and maintain critical communication systems under challenging conditions. His assignments took him throughout Phuthan, Phutai, Ankhe, and Pleiku, where he played a vital role in supporting military operations. He also served as a paratrooper with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, completing 67 official jumps during his military career.

His dedicated service earned numerous military honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Parachute Badge.

Ray later continued his service in the Air Force Reserves, where he trained and served as a C-141 Aircraft Loadmaster Technician. During Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, he faithfully fulfilled his duties, earning additional distinctions that included the Combat Readiness Medal, Air Force Training Ribbon, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, Air Force Longevity Service Award Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two stars. He also served in the Army National Guard and received the Service Medal for Operation Uphold Democracy in support of the Haitian democratic government.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Ray spent more than 50 years as a truck driver, providing faithfully for his family through hard work, determination, and dedication. He believed in honest work, personal responsibility, and caring for those he loved. Over the course of his miles on the road, trucking became much more than a career. It became a ministry. Ray never met a stranger and always had a story to tell. Whether sharing encouragement, lending a helping hand, offering wisdom from experience, or simply taking the time to listen, he touched countless lives through his truck driving ministry and formed friendships that stretched across the country.

Ray was also an avid and talented guitarist. After a serious truck wreck hanging over the George Washington Bridge in NY left him recovering in a full leg cast, he taught himself to play guitar, beginning a passion that would span more than five decades. Music became one of his great joys and a gift he shared with family and friends throughout his life.

Those who knew Ray will remember his strength, resilience, sense of humor, unwavering faith, and deep love for his family. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, making everyone feel like a friend within moments of meeting him. Whether serving his country, providing for his family, worshipping his Savior, or playing music for those around him, Ray lived a life marked by purpose and devotion.

His legacy lives on through the family he cherished, the lives he touched around the world, and the example of courage, faith, and perseverance he leaves behind.

The funeral for Mr. Nance will be held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Stuart. The burial will follow in Jesus Saves Baptist Church Cemetery. Military Rites provided by Patrick County Veterans Memorial Honor Guard. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home on Saturday afternoon. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.moodyfuneralservices.com.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23