She is survived by her daughter Betsy Cook and granddaughter Pema, her son, Todd Cook, his wife Cathy and their children Nicholas and Nolan. Nancy was the widow of her beloved Geep Whiteley, Pastor Emeritus of Bethesda Presbyterian Church, who predeceased her in August of 2008. She is also survived by three stepchildren, David, Patricia and Jonathan Whiteley, as well as her sister-in-law, Sherry Sowers, niece Sarah and nephews Joe and Chris Sowers and their children.

Nancy was born March 5, 1940, and grew up in Christiansburg with her loving parents Joseph and Elsie and her brother Harry Glen Sowers, all of whom predeceased her. She was surrounded by loving aunts and cousins in those formative years, which fostered and enriched her deep, abiding faith in the Lord.

Nancy graduated valedictorian from Christiansburg High School in 1958. From there, she went on to UVA Nursing School and completed her RN certificate in September 1961.

Nancy worked primarily as a recovery room nurse during her medical career. Many years later, she returned to academia, graduating magna cum laude from James Madison University in May 1986 with a Bachelor of General Studies. This prepared Nancy for Union Theological Seminary in Richmond where she celebrated her Master of Divinity in May of 1989.

She was ordained as a Presbyterian minister in August of that same year and this became her primary purpose in life, to minister to those in need. She was a gentle, loving, compassionate, supportive spiritual adviser, officiant, advocate and leader. Nancy performed numerous baptisms, marriages and funerals in the many years since.

Nancy married the Rev. G.P. Whiteley Nov. 3, 1979. Both she and Geep were well loved particularly by their community in Rockbridge Baths. Nancy resided there for 45 years, first in the manse and then later in her beloved cabin in the woods, nestled just above the Maury River.

Nancy was a lover of literature, travel, kitty cats and snow. Her abiding faith in Christ created a foundation for the unwavering support and unconditional love she always showed her family and children in particular. She was a devoted minister of the Shenandoah Presbytery.

Nancy is held in the hearts of her many devoted friends and confidants. Relationships and human connection were deeply meaningful to her. A special thanks to Mary Sue Oas, dear friend and caregiver, who stood by her side for the last several years as Nancy courageously faced multiple medical obstacles with grace, positivity and perseverance. She will be so deeply missed.

A memorial service and internment of the ashes will be held at Bethesda Presbyterian Church in Rockbridge Baths on Saturday, March 2, at 2 p.m., followed by a reception in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Doctors Without Borders, an organization dedicated to providing life-saving care in medical humanitarian emergencies throughout the world.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory. N-G