Nancy Snead Garrett

Nancy Snead Garrett, born July 16, 1940, in Danville, Virginia, was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep devotion to those she held dear.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Garland Bennett Garrett, Jr.; her parents, Carroll Carter Snead, Sr. and Mazie Matthews Snead; and her sister, Donna Sue Snead.

She is survived by her brother, Carroll Carter “Sonny” Snead, Jr. (Henry Weller); her sister, Bonnie Farthing; her sons, Garland Bennett Garrett III (Trey) and Gregory Bryan Garrett (Amanda Morgan); and her two cherished grandsons, Gregory Jackson Garrett and Jacob Carter Garrett.

Nancy began her career working in the family business, Cape Fear Music Company, where she handled clerical responsibilities. She later moved to Raleigh with her husband, Garland, and worked in administration at Dorothea Dix Hospital.

But Nancy's life was never defined by the work she did. It was defined by the people she loved and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures.

She treasured her friendships, especially the many afternoons spent around a bridge table, where the cards were only part of the fun. Nancy enjoyed good company, lively conversation, and a little laughter along the way. And anyone fortunate enough to have enjoyed one of her amazing home-cooked meals knew she had a special way of making an ordinary gathering feel like an occasion.

Of all the names Nancy answered to throughout her life, perhaps the sweetest was "Mawmaw." It was the name given to her by her beloved grandsons, Jackson and Jake, and the role that brought her more joy than any other. Being their Mawmaw was not just a title; it was one of the greatest loves of her life. She poured her heart into caring for them, finding happiness in the everyday moments that, looking back, become the memories that matter most. Whether she was looking after them, spending time with them, or simply being there when they needed her, her love was constant. Jackson and Jake were her pride and joy, and they will forever carry a part of their Mawmaw with them.

Nancy leaves behind more than memories. She leaves behind the warmth of family gatherings, the laughter shared among lifelong friends, and the quiet, lasting comfort of having been loved by her. Her life reminds us that the greatest gifts we leave behind are rarely things, but rather the love we give, the time we share, and the ways we make others feel at home.

She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever a part of the lives she touched.

To the world, she was Nancy. To her friends, she was someone who made life a little more fun. But to Jackson and Jake, she was Mawmaw—and there was no name she loved more.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Nancy’s life at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 21, 2026 at the First Baptist Church, 411 Market St., Wilmington. Interment will follow at 1:30 pm at Oleander Memorial Gardens, Wilmington.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 411 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401.