Courtland – Nancy Ward Hewett, 83, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026 in the care of her daughter's home in Smithfield with her children by her side.  Born in Whiteville, NC, she was a daughter of the late Harvey and Jewell Ward.  Nancy was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Jerry Hewett; daughter, Melissa Lynn Hewett; and her sister, Linda Ward.

Raised on a tobacco farm in North Carolina, Nancy learned the value of hard work early in life, taking her first public job driving a school bus while still in high school.  Shortly after graduation, she married Jerry, and the couple relocated to Franklin in 1961.

Nancy was a deeply compassionate woman whose devotion to her children and grandchildren knew no bounds.  Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her immediate family and into her beloved Beaver Dam Baptist Church, where she embraced many children and youths as her own.  Over the years, she served as a Sunday school teacher and youth group leader, but her greatest joy was found in the church nursery, gently rocking the babies, who were so special to her.  This same caring nature defined her professional life as well, where she dedicated herself to others as a nurse's aide and caregiver.

Left to cherish her memory are her son, Chris Hewett (Renae) and their children, Faith White (Lee), and Jordan Hewett (Rebekah); and her daughter, Bontá Cunningham (Fred), who served as her wonderful and dedicated caregivers.  She is also survived by her sister, Betty Friesland (John); brothers, Lloyd Canady and Rusty Ward; brothers-in-law, Joey Hewett, Johnny Hewett (Linda), and Phil Ward; along with several nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11AM Thursday, July 2, 2026 in Beaver Dam Baptist Church with Rev. Warren Johnson officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church and suggests memorial donations be made to the Beaver Dam Baptist Church Cemetery Fund.

www.wrightfuneralhome.org