Nancy Nix

Nancy Nix, 58, of Pisgah Forest, NC passed away Sunday, June 25, 2017. She was a daughter of Bernice Ragain Young of Cataula, GA and the late Robert Emmett Young.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband Michael Stephens, two sisters: Patricia Jones of Columbus, GA and Donna Garver of Cataula, GA, one brother: Jim Young of Cary, NC, and three dogs: Teddy, Riley and Anna.

Nancy worked as a dental hygienist in Columbus and Atlanta, GA for over 20 years before the mountains called her to Pisgah Forest. She expressed her artistic talents by designing and contracting her own home, working side-by-side with the builder, even laying much of the stonework herself. Nancy substitute taught in Transylvania County schools, and students connected with her loving encouragement. From 2004-2007, she volunteered as Decorations Chair for Prelude, a fund-raising event for the Brevard Music Center's educational programs, and her ability to transform Straus Hall into magical venues such as Mardi Gras, Phantom of the Opera, Under the Tuscan Sun, and her final creation, An Enchanted Garden, all won rave reviews by ticket holders and respect of her fellow volunteers for her creative abilities and leadership skills. During preparations for her last Prelude, her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Emmy went into labor, and Nancy revived the 5th pup, Teddy, with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation before delivering the 6th pup, Riley. In 2009, she enjoyed showcasing her own Cavalier Cottage, the lovely home and garden she created as a true extension of herself, on the Transylvania County Spring Tour of Homes, helping raise funds for Transylvania Arts Council youth programs. In 2010, she explored her interests in the outdoors more through the Asheville Hiking Group, and she later became a volunteer at the Carl Sandburg Goat Barn.

But Nancy would not want to be remembered for her achievements, as she was more about being than doing. She saw life as a spiritual journey to know her soul's purpose and to express her authentic self, encouraging others by example to do the same. Among her ways of expressing herself were designing spaces and events for people to enjoy meaningful heart-centered connections, being in nature, traveling, and most of all, loving her Cavaliers. She looks forward to playing in the meadows with the Cavaliers she raised as her children who transitioned before her--Callie, Meggie, Scottie, and Emmie.

Private services will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Humane Society of your choice.