Wednesday, October 1, 2025 9:21 am

Merri Rebecca Nanney, 53, a resident of St Helena Island, SC, formerly resided in Union Mills, NC, passed away Tuesday, September 23, 2025. She was an absolute inspiration through her steadfast faith in God and belief in prayer.

Merri was born May 21,1972 in Atlanta, GA and was the daughter of Jack & Barbara Nanney.

Art was a favorite and she enjoyed working for 12 years at UMAR Art on Main in Lincolnton. She learned and excelled in several types of artwork, with jewelry making and painting. Merri was also an amazing athlete in Special Olympics. She participated and excelled in swimming, track, bocce, and cheerleading events in Fulton County GA, Rutherford County, and Lincoln County.

Merri is survived by her sisters Kaye (Mark) McKinney, Jackie (Randy) Wallace, Natalie (Leonard) Archer, and Stacey Moulin, 8 nieces, 2 nephews, 4 great nieces and 6 great nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents Jack & Barbara Nanney, nephew Chase McKinney and niece Brittany Nanney.

A celebration of Merri's life was held at Crowe's Mortuary on September 27 followed by a graveside service at Round Hill Baptist Church Cemetery, Union Mills with Rev. Bruce Caldwell officiating.

To honor Merri's radiant happiness and contagious joy, donations may be made to Special Olympics Rutherford County, "Sharing Merri's Smile", c/o Allison Kennedy, 208 Briarwood Dr., Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Online condolences may be made at www.crowemortuary.com.