Nancy Hughey Fairchild

Nancy Kay Hughey was born on June 30, 1943, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late James Nall "Shorty" Hughey and Ruth Hughey. She grew up in Olive Branch, Mississippi, where she made lifelong friendships and put down roots that remained close to her heart throughout her life. After graduating from Olive Branch High School, Nancy continued her education at Mississippi College, carrying forward a sharp mind, a generous spirit, and enduring Southern grace.

Above all accomplishments in life, Nancy’s greatest joy and deepest devotion was to her Saviour, Jesus Christ. Some of her fondest memories were of Camp Garaywa, a Girls’ Auxiliary (GA) Bible camp—the long bus rides and the moment she surrendered her life to become a missionary to Africa. Years later, that calling came full circle when the mission field arrived on her doorstep: she became “Mom Nancy” to a group of Sudanese refugees relocated to Nashville, affectionately known as “The Lost Boys.”

As a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Nancy created a home filled with unconditional love, warmth, and laughter. Her steady presence, quiet wisdom, and bright smile were a constant source of strength to all who knew and loved her.

In the early morning hours of October 3rd, she met her Saviour face to face and was reunited with her parents, James Nall "Shorty" and Ruth Hughey, and her beloved sisters, Marie and Sheri.

Nancy is lovingly remembered and survived by her three children:

Michael (Delynn) and their children: Micah, Tanna, Jordan, Madelyn, Benjamin, Samuel, Nathanael, and Sarah

James and his children: Cody and Breece

Marlo (Tim) and her children: Amber, Russel, and Zoey

Her legacy shines brightly through her twelve cherished great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Judy Sturgeon, along with an aunt, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.

Service Information:

A Celebration of Nancy’s Life will be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Brantley Funeral Home (6875 Cockrum Road, Olive Branch, Mississippi), burial to follow at Lebanon Cemetery (8691 Bethel Road, Olive Branch, Mississippi).

Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share memories, and honor a wonderful life well-lived.