Nancy Lockwood Early

Nancy Lockwood Early passed away peacefully on June 1, 2024 surrounded by family. Born on March 17, 1942, in Hampton, VA, Nancy was the daughter of the late Louise Capehart and William Holcombe Lockwood. She was also preceded in death by her sister, Ann Lockwood Phillips; brother-in-law, Robert Lee Phillips; mother and father-in-law, Virginia Utz and James Banks Early, Jr; and brother-in-law, Ronald Early.

Nancy is survived by her husband, James B. Early III; her three children, James B. Early IV (Maria), Shannon Early Johnston (Bill), and Jill Early Norris (Wes); her five grandchildren, Will, Christopher, Weston, Brighton, and Saylor; her nephews, Bobby Phillips (Sarah), Will Phillips (Jennifer), Ben Early (Lowry); and a niece, Heather Selck (Paul); and her brothers-in-law, Steve Early (Ellen) and Jeff Early (Eileen). Nancy enjoyed all things in the sun and on the water. An avid rower, boater, and tennis player she was always on the go. Nancy graduated from Hampton High School in 1960 where she was a student government officer and was crowned Homecoming Queen.

She then went on to attend East Carolina College (University) where she met the love of her life, Jim Early, earned a B.A. in Education, and was crowned Miss East Carolina in 1962. They married in June 1963 and built an amazing life together filled with love of family and appreciating and enjoying the simple things in life. Nancy had more love for her family members than can be expressed with words. Each action she took and every decision she made was fueled by the love and pride she had for her family. She also had special, lifelong relationships with her husband’s Kappa Alpha fraternity brothers and their wives, as well as her many dear friends in Staunton and Williamsburg.

Nancy held a number of occupations throughout her adult life, but she most enjoyed those that allowed her to interact with and form a relationship with her customers. Working in banking, insurance, and most recently as a trainer at Curves for Women in Williamsburg, brought her such joy. She thrived on seeing and connecting with her customers and clients in each of these roles and formed relationships that extended well beyond her work. Nancy never met a stranger and had a gift of making true friends everywhere she went.

While Alzheimer’s and Dementia gradually diminished her ability to communicate clearly, she held to several phrases: “I love you.” “You’re so pretty/cute.” “Thank you.” and “Isn’t it fun!” each of which highlighted the essence of her being - love, joy, and positivity, despite the debilitating nature of the disease. Even when she could no longer recognize someone, she saw the warmth in their eyes and greeted them with her loving, radiant, sweet smile. Nancy will be remembered for so many of her wonderful attributes and actions, but mostly for the love she had for all she knew, and for the beacon of hope and joy she was to all who met her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, despite all of the challenges life brings, for her family and friends to carry on. She will be deeply missed.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the love and care of the wonderful doctor, the caring nurses and aids (Amy, Barbara, and Carrie), and Chaplain Reverend Washington of Amedisys Hospice, Deborah and Sheila who were in-home caregivers for Nancy, and of all of the nurses and staff at the Hospice House of Williamsburg in her final days.

A private celebration of life will be held for Nancy. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Hospice House of Williamsburg, 4445 Powhatan Parkway, Williamsburg, VA 23188.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.