Nancy Clair Hood Gray, 91, a beloved mother and longtime resident of Columbia, died Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Skyline Medical Center in Nashville.
Graveside services will be conducted Thursday at 2:30 PM at Santa Fe Cemetery with Jimmy Fann officiating. The family will visit with friends Thursday from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.
Nancy was born September 30, 1934, in Columbia, Tennessee, to the late Fred Hood and the late Hildred Willis Hood. She was a retired licensed practical nurse, having worked at several nursing homes and hospitals throughout Middle Tennessee. Nancy was a devoted mother who cherished her family and will be remembered for the love and care she gave to those around her.
In her spare time, Nancy enjoyed quilting, working jigsaw puzzles, and reading. She found great joy in the simple things in life and especially treasured time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her four children, Eddie Stephens of Franklin, Melissa Stephens of Houston, Texas, Robert (Doris) Stephens of New Johnsonville, Tennessee, and Jace (Carrie) Stephens of Nashville, Tennessee; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Anna Mae Hood, Emma Jean Lanius, John Hood, Ray Hood, Donald Hood, Buford Hood, Paul Hood, and Gary Hood; and daughter in law Elaina Stephens.
Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.
Nancy will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends for the life she shared with them and the many memories she leaves behind.
