Hazlehurst, MS – Nancy Jean Oliver, 72, passed away peacefully in Tupelo, MS, at North Mississippi Medical Center on January 1, 2025, following a brief but courageous battle with lung cancer that metastasized to her brain.

Born on June 7, 1952, in Miami, FL, Nancy was the cherished daughter of the late Captain Sidney Leon Oliver and Grace Marian Kattau Oliver. She graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes Academy in Miami, Florida, where she cultivated a deep love of faith and attended Hinds Community College in Raymond, MS.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Dana Costas, and her brother Mitchell Oliver.

She is survived by her daughter, Nina Strother, Nina’s husband David Strother, and her beloved grandchildren, Sidney and Liam Strother of Fulton, MS. She is also survived by her brother Michael Oliver (Bette), her sister Grace Oliver, her brother Sidney Oliver, Jr., and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Nancy was a woman of unwavering kindness and dedication. She gave freely of her time and energy as an avid volunteer with the American Legion in Jackson, MS, and Camp Bluebird, which supports and uplifts those battling cancer. Her strength, generosity, and faith left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, January 4, at The Orchard Fulton, 301 East Main Street, and a Celebration of Life immediately follow at 11 a.m. After the service, Nancy will be cremated and the family will request an intention of Mass in her memory at St. Francis of Assisi in Brookhaven, Mississippi, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in her honor to the Gertrude C. Ford Hope Lodge in Jackson, MS, which provides free lodging for cancer patients and their caregivers during treatment.

Nancy Jean Oliver’s legacy of love, service, and compassion will continue to inspire and comfort all who were touched by her life. May she rest in eternal peace.