Nan R. Alcorn, a remarkable woman of 88 years, peacefully departed this life on August 21, 2024, in the comforting presence of her devoted husband, Jimmie Truitt Alcorn, at their cherished home. Born on July 3, 1936, Nan was the beloved daughter of Albert Dewy Lynn and Daisey Elizabeth Mathis, who nurtured her in the fertile embrace of rural life. Raised on a farm, she was surrounded by abundant vegetation and landscapes that painted the backdrop of her formative years. Her childhood was steeped in the values of resilience and love that her parents instilled in her, values that would guide her through life’s journey.
Nan often reminisced about her early years, recalling the simplicity and beauty of a life lived close to the earth. She would tell tales of walking barefoot to school and the trials and triumphs of a life that, despite its hardships, was filled with loved. Her fondest memories were of gathering around the kitchen table with her sisters, canning fresh vegetables while laughter echoed through the room. This tradition became a lifelong passion for Nan, who continued to preserve the bounty of her garden, passing down the art of canning to her family. It was through these simple acts that she ensured her legacy would live on, not just in jars of preserved vegetables but in the hearts of those she loved.
Her upbringing instilled in Nan a strong moral compass and an unwavering commitment to loving and accepting others as they were. This compassion, paired with her indomitable spirit, made her a beacon of strength and warmth. On June 28, 1957, she married the love of her life, Jimmie, and together they built a family grounded in the same principles she had been taught. Over the years, Nan’s nurturing nature drew people to her like a magnet. Lovingly known as “Granny”, she became a mother and grandmother to all who entered her life, her love creating a family that extended beyond bloodlines.
Nan was a woman of conviction, never hesitating to stand up for what she believed was right, even if it meant standing alone. Her activism was a testament to her steadfast faith and her belief in the power of doing good. As her children grew and had children of their own, Nan was ever-present, celebrating each milestone and offering her unwavering support. She and Jimmie became a beloved part of the Culleoka community, particularly through their involvement in the Summer Ball League, where they left an indelible mark on the lives of countless children. Whether she was offering refreshments at the concession stand or cheering from the sidelines, Nan’s presence was a source of joy and encouragement to all.
Nan’s memory will be forever cherished by her loving husband, Jimmie T. Alcorn; her daughter, Lynn Baillie; her son, Jimmy “Scott” (Marcie) Alcorn; and her grandchildren: Rebecca Baillie (Allen) Luman, Tony Jimi Anthony (Sarah Magdal) Alcorn, Emily (Josh) Taft, and Hannah Alcorn (Crews) Bassham. Her great-grandchildren, Harrison David Taft and Hudson Truett Taft, will carry forward the legacy of love she so generously imparted. In addition to her parents, Nan was preceded in death by her great-granddaughter, Tatum Lynn Baillie, whose memory she held close to her heart.
The family will receive friends and visitors on Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Williams Funeral Home in Columbia from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:00 AM with one hour of visitation prior to service time. To follow, Nan will be laid to rest in the Arbors at Polk Memorial Gardens.
As Nan is laid to rest, those honored to serve as pallbearers are Jimi Alcorn, Josh Taft, Crews Bassham, Allen Luman, Mike Lewis, and Jason Rose. Honorary pallbearers include Andy Lo and Sheila Compton, who, like so many others, were touched by Nan’s enduring kindness and strength.
Nan R. Alcorn’s story is one of love, resilience, and a life well-lived. Her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her, as her spirit remains woven into the fabric of her family and community. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever be a source of warmth and strength.
The care of Mrs. Nan R. Alcorn and her family has been entrusted to the staff of Williams Funeral Home.
