Nancy Box passed away on October 23, 2026, at the age of 91. She spent most of her life in Tupelo, Mississippi, after moving there from Corinth. In her later years, she returned to her hometown of Memphis to be near her family. She attended the University of Mississippi and carried a lifelong fondness for Oxford.
While living in Corinth, Nancy began her social work career with the Alcorn County Department of Public Welfare. She supported families facing difficult circumstances by connecting children and parents with guidance and resources, and she worked alongside Youth Court and Chancery Court to help ensure they received appropriate care.
After moving to Tupelo, Nancy worked at Faith Haven, supporting children and families during crisis placements and helping them navigate difficult circumstances.
Nancy’s community involvement in Tupelo was broad and meaningful. She served with the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, the Foster Care Review Board, the Hospitality Committee of the Tupelo Tourism Bureau, and Faith Haven’s Board of Directors. She treasured her years with the Fortnightly Musicale of Tupelo, especially participating in its Musical Christmas Tour of Homes fundraiser. She was also active in the Tupelo Christian Women’s Club and took part in many charitable and civic efforts throughout the community.
At Calvary Baptist Church, she sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, and served in roles that reflected her steady involvement in church life. In 2004, Nancy became a statewide advocate when she played a leading role in stopping Mississippi’s proposed unilateral no-fault divorce bill—an effort recognized by the Clarion-Ledger for its statewide impact.
Nancy was preceded in death by her son, Chris Box, and her brother, Glenn Williams. She is survived by her daughters, Carol Mote (Ron) and Cynthia Thomas (Bob); her grandchildren, Jeff Mote, Matthew Mote (Alexis), Drew Talley (Megan), and Kate Talley; her great-granddaughter, Susie Carolyn; and her brother, Monty Williams (Jane).
She is now in heaven, reunited with her beloved son and the family who welcomed her home. Nancy will be remembered for her quiet dedication, her willingness to help, and the many small but meaningful ways she touched the lives of those around her.
A graveside service will be held at 2 PM on Sunday, October 25, 2026 at Tupelo Memorial Park. There will be no public visitation. Holland Funeral Directors – Tupelo Chapel is honored to serve the family.
Condolences for the family may be left on Nancy’s memorial page at hollandfuneraldirectors.com.
