Eugene Dewey Nance

Eugene “Spud” Dewey Nance, 92, passed away peacefully in his home on June 4, 2016  surrounded by his family.  Born on July 7, 1923, he was a proud lifelong resident of Ocean View.
He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Anna Nance,his beloved wife of 63 years, Rena Claiborne Sayles Nance, an infant son, and sisters Louise Bramble, Virginia Barrows, Elizabeth Ogden and Pauline Reid.
Survivors include his loving sisters, Joyce and her husband Elmer Miller of Virginia Beach and Gloria Ward of Florida ; 2 daughters, Bonnie and husband Delvin Deem of St. Charles, Missouri; Tamara and husband Mark Lindquist, Sr. of Norfolk; 4 grandchildren, Amanda Squires (Jeff), Christopher Deem, Kristin Lindquist (Damian Crowley), Joseph Lindquist; 2 great grandchildren, Luke and Caitlin Squires; many nephews, nieces and a host of dear friends. He is also survived by his “adopted” granddaughters, Kelly Balfour and Leigh Zagorski, as well as his extended family at Captain Groovy’s Grill & Raw Bar.
Spud was a 1942 graduate of Granby High School and attended the Norfolk Division College of William & Mary. He was a proud Eagle Scout and a devoted Mason for more than 75 years as a member of Ocean View Lodge 335. After serving in the United States Navy, he began a 35 year career with The Naval Air Rework Facility.  He retired early to continue a life of volunteering while fully embracing his most cherished role as “Granddaddy”.
Spud was active in many charitable organizations throughout his life including the Bay View PTA, the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen and Meals on Wheels all while serving his much-loved church.  He was a Founding member of Miles Memorial Methodist and a member of the United Methodist Men’s Club.  He was also a member of Park Place and St. John Methodist churches.  As a couple, Spud and Rena were skilled bridge players, enjoying the companionship of their friends at the table.  After his retirement they travelled all over the country with close friends and celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in England.
He will long be remembered for his strong faith, sense of humor and his willingness to help others.
A celebration of his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. June  13, 2016 at Miles Memorial Methodist Church led by The Reverend John Haynes and The Reverend Gina Miller.  The Family will receive visitors at the church one hour prior to services.  Burial will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery. A reception will be held at the church following burial.
In lieu of flowers, click here to make donations to Miles Memorial Methodist Church.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Bon Secours Hospice, Dorothy Baldwin, Sheryl Brennell and Frank Hill for their loving and tender care over Spud.