Nancy Zehm

Nancy Zehm was born on December 13, 1941, in Hopewell, Virginia, to the late James Robert Davis and Mattie Beatrice Davis. One of thirteen children, Nancy came from a large family and carried that love of family with her throughout her life.

Nancy is survived by her sons, Darrel K. Zehm (Rhonda) and Michael G. Zehm (Michelle); her stepson, Timothy L. Zehm; and her daughter, Brenda L. Trump (James). She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, Caleb Zehm, Joshua Zehm (Samantha), Ashley Zehm, Gabby Gaul, Shannon Groves, Kacey Nichols (Seth), Elana Scott (Angelo), and Drew Nichols (Blair); and her great-grandchildren, Corbin Zehm, Miliana Zehm, Damian Zehm, Chase Butler, Rebecca Cooke, and her youngest great-grandchild, Luke Scott. She will also be lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews.

Nancy retired from J.W. Ferguson before beginning a second chapter in her life by operating a home daycare for many years. She was a strong, independent woman who was stubborn, feisty, and strong-willed, yet kind-hearted to those she loved. She had a spirit all her own and a determination that carried her through life's challenges. Raising her three children on her own, Nancy worked hard and always put her children first.

No matter how much life changed, her children always knew they could turn to her. Her home and heart were open to all of them, and she welcomed each with open arms whenever they needed a place to stay or a helping hand. Her love for her children never wavered, and being there for them was one of the many ways she showed how much they meant to her. She also appreciated the help Darrel and Mike provided with projects around her house and garden, sharing in the care of a home that meant so much to her.

Nancy's love for her family was woven into the everyday moments that made life special. She loved cooking meals for her family and always made sure there were sweets available for her grandchildren. As a grandmother, she was lovingly known as Nanny. She created a home full of holiday spirit, decorating for the holidays and making each season feel special. She loved playing with her grandchildren and having them over for sleepovers, creating memories they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. Those moments of laughter, fun, and togetherness were some of the greatest gifts she gave them.

Nancy found happiness in the simple pleasures of life. She treasured fishing trips with her daughter, always bringing along the fried chicken she had prepared. She enjoyed special weekends at the Bay with her sisters, making memories together. She loved her Diet Coke, looked forward to pizza Fridays, and never passed up a reason to celebrate - especially if cake was involved! These familiar favorites and little traditions were part of what made Nancy who she was.

Nancy also deeply valued her independence. She missed being able to go to the movie theater whenever she wanted, a small freedom that meant a great deal to her. Although she struggled with the adjustment of giving up her home, she found comfort in knowing she was well cared for by Brenda and James. She was especially appreciative of James's cooking, often saying, "James can really cook!" His meals and their pizza Fridays gave her something to look forward to and enjoy.

Nancy's life was not defined by grand gestures, but by the strength of her character, the kindness she showed, the home she opened to her family, and the memories she created with those she loved. She was a woman who cared deeply for her family and wanted them to know they always had a place in her life.

Though her family will miss her dearly, there is comfort in knowing that Nancy is now at peace. She has been reunited with her beloved family members who went before her and her cherished cat, Maybelle. May her family find comfort in the memories she leaves behind, the love she gave so freely, and the many traditions that will continue to bring them together. Her presence will be missed, but her love will remain a part of her family for generations to come.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026 at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home, 3050 W. Hundred Rd., Chester, VA 23831. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at the funeral home. Interment will follow in Bermuda Memorial Park, Chester, VA.