Nancy Saylors

Nancy Dowling Saylors, 76, passed away on November 4, 2026, following a long illness. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her creative spirit, and the magic she brought to the lives of those around her. Through her devotion to family, her faith, and her willingness to serve others, she leaves a legacy of love and memories that will be treasured for generations.

Nancy was born on January 10, 1950, at Fort Sanders Hospital in Knoxville, Tennessee, to Helen and Cecil Dowling. She grew up in Fountain City and graduated from Central High School in 1968. In 1973, she married Tom Saylors, beginning a partnership that would span more than five decades.

Throughout her life, Nancy worked at Bank of Knoxville, Susan Small CPAs, and Glass Bazzar. Organized and creative in equal measure, she had a gift for bringing thoughtful details together and making ordinary moments feel special. She brought that same care and imagination to her family, her friendships, and her church community.

Nancy’s faith found expression in her involvement at Middlebrook Pike United Methodist Church. She was an active member of the youth program, choir, and women’s groups, and she led many mission trips. Of those experiences, helping people affected by Hurricane Katrina remained closest to her heart. Her service reflected her desire not simply to care about others, but to show up for them.

Nancy loved to travel and found joy in both the mountains and the beach. Whether exploring somewhere new or enjoying a familiar place, she appreciated the beauty around her and the memories made along the way.

At the heart of Nancy’s life was her family: her husband, Tom Saylors; her daughter, Leigh Saylors Stivers, and son-in-law, Rob Stivers; her son, Matt Saylors; and her three grandchildren, Mason Dowling Stivers, Caleigh Cousar Stivers, and Carson Belle Stivers. The love and creativity she shared with them will remain an enduring part of their lives.

Nancy is also lovingly remembered by her aunt, Mary Brennenan; her brother-in-law, Mark Saylors, and his wife, Angie Saylors; her nephew, Zack Saylors, and his wife, Erika; her niece, Ali Darnell, and her husband, David Darnell; and her great-nieces and great-nephews, Dax Darnell, Orlando Darnell, Davie Darnell, Luke Saylors, and Mark Saylors. Her many cousins also cherish the wonderful memories they shared with her.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Berry Highland Memorial Funeral Home. Funeral services will follow at 12 noon, with burial at 1:00 p.m. inside Berry Highland Memorial Cemetery.

Nancy’s legacy lives in the people she loved, the communities she served, and the countless moments she made meaningful. She created magic in the lives of those around her, and that magic will live on in the love and memories she leaves behind.

Live streaming is available at https://Berry-Highland-Memorial.livecontrol.tv/f337aea3.