She was born on May 24, 1939 in Campbell County and was the daughter of the late George W. Schley and Alice W. Schley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband Richard “Buddy” Crist Sr.; son Richard “Ricky” Crist Jr.; daughter Sharon Crist Rakes; brother Billy W. Schley and half-brother Ray Witt.
She graduated from Brookville High School and also attended The Wilton School in Chicago, IL studying Master Cake Decorator classes. She worked for several Physicians in the area as well as owning and operating her own successful catering business. She taught numerous cake decorating classes over the years in Central Virginia area. Nancy’s favorite job was working at the Altavista Police Department as a dispatcher for the police, fire and rescue squad.
She was a woman of many talents and she loved to give her time and service to others. She could be found in her spare time baking, cooking, quilting, smocking baby clothing and blankets and monogramming gifts for loved ones. She gave countless wedding cakes away to couples in need and loved to give back to her community. She taught her family the importance of service, hard-work and resilience. She loved to visit Myrtle Beach with her late husband Buddy, her children and her grandchildren. She was a charter member of Thomas Road. She loved a good Dr. Pepper.
She is survived by her devoted daughter Carolyn Crist Burgess and her husband Titus; eight grandchildren, Tara Burgess, Keith Burgess, Troy Burgess (Crystal), Crystal Burgess Hicks (Joel), Jaclyn Burgess Carter (Chris), Titus Burgess, Jr. (Ashley), Emily Rakes Woody (Eddie) and Kayla Rakes; great grandchildren, Logan, Brynlee, Elizabeth, Mason, Hayden, Parker, Lance, Alexa, Brooklynn, Chase, Alayna, Wyatt, Gunner, (Trip) Titus III and Cole.
The family is deeply grateful for the staff at Autumn Care who have helped care for Nancy over the years. She loved to play Bingo and attended weekly gospel music events at Autumn Care. Even during the pandemic, she would sing gospel music in the hallways. We are forever thankful for the love and community at Autumn Care that was provided to her during the pandemic and the last years of her life.
A funeral service celebrating her life will be held on Monday, July 25, 2022 at Whitten Timberlake Chapel at 12:00 p.m. with Pastor Cavin Carlton officiating.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, July 24 from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions in her name are asking to consider the Altavista Fire Department, 1280b Main Street, Altavista, VA 24517 or Lyn-Dan Heights Volunteer Fire Department, 578 Lawyers Rd, Rustburg, VA 24501 .
