Nancy Craig Blackburn

Nancy was born in Melrose, MA on October 21, 1949 to Charles and Fariss Craig. The family moved frequently due to Chuck's job with IBM, but Alexandria was Nancy's home. She graduated from Groveton High School in 1967 and then attended Randolph-Macon Women's College in Lynchburg, VA, graduating in 1971. That same year she married her best friend and high school sweetheart, Richard Blackburn, in Gainesville, FL. The two lived for a time in Atlanta, GA and Annapolis, MD before returning to Alexandria where they expanded to four (and later six).

Nancy is survived by her adoring beau of 52 years and husband of 46, Dick; her daughter Blanton Blackburn and her husband Jason Richard of Portland, OR; her son Craig and his wife Eana Chung (and their soon to be baby boy) of Washington, DC; her brother John Michael Craig of Alexandria; and all of her wonderful friends from childhood, high school, college, the Alexandria Lunch Bunch Association (ALBA), and later life.

There isn't enough space in this paper to describe the amazing Nancy or to try to "summarize" her outstanding life and her vigor in living it. Wife, mother, friend, gardener extraordinaire, avid reader, artist, humorist, hostess - a tremendous generous spirit. She was the embodiment of sweetness and love. Those whose lives she touched, inspired, and influenced will be forever grateful and will carry her memory with them always.

Friends may visit at Demaine Funeral Home from 5 to 8 PM on Tuesday, April 3.There will be a Mass of Christian Burial at the Basilica of St. Mary, 310 S. Royal St., Alexandria, VA 22314 at 10:30 AM on Thursday, April 5, followed by a reception at Belle Haven Country Club.