Nancy B. Ward
February 16, 1925 - April 9, 2026

Nancy Bunker Ward, born February 16, 1925, in Mount Airy, North Carolina to Albert Lemuel Bunker and Nina Angell Bunker, passed away peacefully at her home of 65 years on April 9th, 2026 in Plymouth, NC, surrounded by her loving children and devoted caregivers.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, James H. Ward; her sisters, Adelaide Bunker Sink and Dorothy Bunker Almy; and her grandson, Peter Stellato. She leaves behind a sprawling and joyful legacy: her six children - Nancy Lou Bunker Ward of Decatur, GA, Jon Ward Shaw (Bob) of Greenville, NC, Adelaide Ward Burton (Dal) of Atlanta, GA, Jim Ward, Jr. (Myrla Florstedt) of Greenville, NC, Elizabeth C. Ward of Wilmington, NC, and Caroline Ward Cone (Steve) of Wilmington, NC - along with 14 grandchildren and 9 great‑grandchildren, all of whom carry forward her intelligence, character, and fierce love.

A lifelong learner, Nancy attended NC State University and Duke University before graduating from Cornell University. After raising six children with her husband she attended East Carolina University to earn her Teacher Certificate.  Her commitment to service shaped much of her life; she was deeply involved with the Salvation Army, United Way, Girl Scouts of America, Cub Scouts, and both the First Baptist Church and Grace Episcopal Church, offering her time, leadership, and compassion wherever it was needed.

Nancy's heart was anchored by the places and passions she cherished most: her family – both direct and extended, her beloved farm, summers at her cottage on the Albemarle Sound, sewing clothes (for her daughters and their baby dolls), oil painting, the joy of playing the piano for homespun concerts with her children and husband (trumpet), and the freedom she found riding her Tennessee Walker horse – Dixie.  She was a force of nature - strong‑willed, moral, witty, and candid - qualities she carried with her gracefully until the very end.

She will be sorely missed by many.

Arrangements are by Bryan Funeral Service at Hampton Academy, Plymouth.