James Glen Nance

Jim was born on July 8, 1937 in Griffin, Georgia to Lewis Wendell Nance and Jessie Milam Nance. After his father died when he was 12, Jim had the blessing of a loving grandfather who stepped in until passing away just 5 years later. Jim grew up with his grandmother and mother and alongside his treasured and much loved younger brothers, Kenneth Nance and Robin Nance.

Jim graduated from Georgia Tech in 1960. A gifted student, he was also a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and always remained a loyal Tech fan.

Jim met the love of his life, Martha Mitchell on a blind date. Their next date was a Georgia Tech/Kentucky basketball game. He said he knew he had fallen in love because he had no idea what happened during the game or even the score! They married on New Years Eve and shared 65 wonderful years, always each other’s best friend and sweetheart.

In 1962, Jim and Martha welcomed their beloved daughter, Martha Caroline. Jim treated her with such tenderness and devotion that their mutual love and respect was evident to all. Five years later, the family moved to Greenville, South Carolina, where Jim and Martha put down roots and have lived for the past 58 years, creating a home filled with countless memories of friends and family.

His role as a grandfather (Dedad) was one of his favorites! Always ready with a twinkle in his eye and a funny comment, he brought laughter and delight to them. He rarely missed a trip, holiday, or opportunity to cheer their sports teams. As a 6’5” high school and junior college basketball player himself, he was thrilled when all 3 kids had the chance to play his favorite sport! He especially loved Christmas in Daytona, Thanksgiving in Highlands, and any chance to host “the grands,” as he affectionately called them. His commitment to them, despite later health obstacles, helped him show up for the most precious of events ~ two weddings and college graduations. The pure love and godly example he poured into Mitchell, Caroline & Teddy is a gift that can’t be measured and is his true legacy.

Jim’s faith was central to his life and his character reflected his humble belief, trust and dependence on the Lord. He was very active in his church and Bible Studies. He loved and lived by his favorite verse from Proverbs 3:5-6 — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.”

Jim enjoyed his career in commercial real estate, and was known to be a person of truth and fairness in his business dealings. He worked on numerous projects that left a lasting impact on the Greenville community he loved. He was also an active member of the Kiwanis Club, where he maintained his membership for over 60 years, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to service and community.

Jim is survived by his wife Martha Mitchell Nance, his daughter Martha Nance Keim, his grandchildren John Mitchell Keim (Emma), Caroline Keim Mungenast (Joseph), James Edward Keim (“Teddy”), his brother Robin Wendell Nance, and many dearly loved nieces and nephews.

A gentleman to his core, he exemplified a life of faithfulness — to God, to family, and to others. He will be deeply missed by all who were blessed to know and love him.

Funeral Services will be held on Friday, January 9 at 11:00 am with visitation following at the First Presbyterian Church, Greenville, South Carolina. Graveside services will be held at the Marietta City Cemetery Marietta, Georgia on Sunday, January 11 at 3:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a memorial to the charity of your choice.