Nancy Patterson

She was a member of the first graduating class of Berry High School in 1965 and later attended Samford University. Nancy began her professional career at Liberty National in 1966 as a switchboard operator, eventually advancing to policy underwriter before moving to Protective Life, where she continued her career for the past 26 years, working most recently as an Underwriting Consultant.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Wilson and Dee Hamilton; her brothers, Michael Hamilton and Richard Hamilton; her sister, Kathy Hamilton; and her chosen family members, Lindie Brown and Catherine Word.

She is survived by her niece, Michele Baker (Bill) of Richardson, Texas; her nephew, Dr. Kevin Hamilton (Christy) of Nashville, Tennessee; her nephew, Matt Hamilton (Jennifer) of Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia; and her niece, Katie Feighner (Barrett) of Columbus, Georgia, as well as their children and grandchildren. She is also survived by her chosen family: Linda Johnson; Andrea and Dan Pahos; Carlyn and Billy Priddy; Lesli and Doug Travis; Stuart Wiggins; and Barbara and Robert Wills; along with her adopted grandchildren, Drew Wills; Will, Joseph and Ben Travis; and Hannah and Andrew Pahos. Nancy was a cherished friend to many in her church family and maintained a very close circle of work friends, including many younger employees whom she mentored and lovingly referred to as her “kids.”

Nancy attended Shades Mountain Baptist Church since birth and joined upon baptism on April 1, 1955. She began serving the church at an early age by helping in the nursery alongside her mother. For many years, Nancy was a leading force and director in Shades’ vibrant Singles Ministry. She also served as the church’s wedding director and played an instrumental role in the weddings of many she met through Singles Sunday School.

Nancy loved singing and was a longtime member of the ladies ensemble Perfect Heart, the handbell choir, and the Shades Mountain Choir. She enjoyed the pageants, concerts, and traveling nationally and internationally to sing with the choir. An avid world traveler, Nancy embraced adventure both for personal enjoyment and through several international mission trips.

Nancy’s smile and laughter were contagious, her faith was steadfast, and her love for friends and family unwavering. She will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to share in her life.

A celebration of life will be held at Shades Mountain Baptist Church Worship Center on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., with visitation beginning at noon.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Shades Mountain Baptist Church.