Nancy Craighead Brown

On May 19, 2021, Nancy Craighead Brown, 78, (aka Nanny-B), surrounded by her loving family, gained her angel wings.  Born November 3, 1942, she was the oldest child of Roy Craighead, Sr. and Dorothy Craighead, and grew up in Coal Bank Hollow, near Blacksburg.  Nancy was a hairdresser in Roanoke for 21 years and then a Certified Nurse Aide and Medication Aide for 20 years.  She had a special gift for decorating and hosting get-togethers and will be missed by many.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was predeceased by her husband and love of her life, Paul Brown, Sr., brothers Cletus Craighead and Roy Craighead, Jr.   She is survived by her daughter, Tracy Rugarber (Mark aka that gay guy), sons Johnny Brown (Vicki) and Paul Brown, Jr. (aka PJ).  Also surviving are grandson, Christopher Smith, Jr., granddaughter, Daytona Tolley (Robert), brother, Curtis Craighead (Sue), sisters, Jeanie Craighead, Carolyn Bray, Vickie Smelser (Ritchie), Donna Hatter and Robin Meador (Ralph), as well as a special aunt, Evelyn Ragland.  Nanny-B enjoyed spending time with (and spoiling), her little buddy, Oscar the cat, and her two great-granddaughters, Abby and Alicia Tolley, who also survive.  Extended surviving family includes Chris, Brittany and Bella Buck.  Numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors are also left to cherish Nancy’s memory.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Richard Prokopchak, Dr. William Fintel, Heather Ball, PA-C and the nurses and staff at Good Samaritan Hospice.

Nancy was a three-time cancer survivor, so in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society in her memory.  Per her wishes, no service will be held.

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