Nancy Upson Kanipe

Born on July 3, 1954, in Greensboro, North Carolina, she was the beloved daughter of Nancy York and Stephen Lumpkin Upson, Sr. A devoted member of Living Savior Lutheran Church of Asheville, Nancy expressed her faith through kindness, love, and steadfast care for those closest to her.

Nancy embraced adventure and joy from an early age. She attended Greensboro public schools through middle school before continuing her education at Chatham Hall in Chatham, Virginia, and later earning a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her life reflected love, loyalty, hard work, and devotion to family and friends. She especially enjoyed traveling and spending time at Wrightsville Beach.

In 1976, Nancy married Robin Kanipe, her best friend and the love of her life. Together, they shared 50 years filled with love, travel, cherished family memories, and laughter. Above all, Nancy treasured her family and made them the center of her life. Once her children were past their early elementary years, she spent 21 joyful years teaching young children at Glen Arden Elementary School. After retiring, she soon realized that a quiet life at home was not for her. With two dear friends, she began a new chapter by co-founding a real estate management company. After years of hard work and dedication, she eventually chose to truly retire.

Nancy is lovingly remembered by her husband, Robin; her sons, Peter (McKenzie) Kanipe and Will (Kristin) Kanipe; her grandchildren, Samantha, Liam, Michael, Ben, Kinsley, and Landon; her siblings, Jane Upson Hubbard and her husband, Tim, of Chapel Hill, NC, and Joe Upson and his wife, Janice, of Marietta, GA; her brother-in-law, John Wright, of Banner Elk; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends whose lives were touched by her.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Nancy York and Stephen Lumpkin Upson, Sr.; her brother, Stephen Lumpkin Upson, Jr.; and her sister, Marie Upson Wright.

The family will receive friends at a visitation on Saturday, September 12, from 2 to 4 p.m., followed by a service and reception at 4 p.m. at 301 Overlook Road in Asheville.