Nancy Lee Garber's Obituary
NANCY LEE GARBER, 91 of Leesburg, Virginia, and formerly of Harrisonburg, passed away on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at her home. She was born June 15, 1932, and is predeceased by her beloved grandparents, Sarah Jane and Zebedee Roadcap, parents, Della and James Hoskins, and husband, David. Nancy is survived by daughters, Sharon Perry (husband Dennis) and Carol Germain; grandchildren Jessica Thomas (husband Chris), Ben Perry, and Natalie Germain; great-grandchildren Claire, Elise, and Grace Thomas.
Nancy had a love of learning from an early age, and graduated as Valedictorian from Harrisonburg High School in 1950. Later, she attended Harrisonburg Business School and Madison College. She co-owned David B. Garber, Jeweler, founded in 1957 in Harrisonburg with her husband, and she continued to operate the store after his death in 1982. In addition to managing the business end of the store, Nancy hand-selected merchandise and enjoyed assisting her customers, many of whom patronized the store for decades. She retired in 2011 at age 79.
Nancy was a civic leader. She served as president of the local chapter of Quota International, an organization dedicated to empowering women, children, and the deaf. She also served as president of the Harrisonburg Retail Merchants, working tirelessly to support businesses and advocating for them at city council meetings, promoting projects such as beautification, parking, parades, and the farmer’s market. Additionally, Nancy served as a Girl Scout leader, church volunteer, and supporter of veterans’ organizations.
Among Nancy’s passions were genealogy, tracing family history to the 1600’s, collecting antiques, and gardening. An avid historian, Nancy collected copies of original documents, postcards, letters, photographs and artifacts, especially those relating to Shenandoah Valley history. She shared her findings with local historians and authors and maintained a dedicated window in the store for displaying objects of interest. Upon retirement, Nancy donated many of her documents to special friends and local historical organizations.
Above all, Nancy treasured her family. She was a devoted mother, and was thrilled with her grandchildren. Her great-grandchildren delighted her. She admired and enjoyed the special people who joined the family circle. There was nothing she cherished more than celebrating birthdays, holidays and special occasions with her loved ones. She will be greatly missed by her family. A private Celebration of Life service is planned, with interment at a later date in Harrisonburg.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
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