Nancy Elizabeth Gargis

Nancy Elizabeth Godwin Gargis, 82, passed away peacefully in Newton on Thursday, March 20, 2025. Nancy was born in Raleigh to Margaret Kelly Britt Godwin and Benjamin Franklin Godwin Jr. She attended Broughton High School where she met her future husband, Jim, when they were in the tenth grade. She attended Peace College before she and Jim settled into Newton after they were married. Nancy was a PACU nurse at Catawba Valley Medical Center and retired after 20 years of service. She was a substitute teacher, an avid golfer and hiker, veteran “road-tripper,” and Jim’s first mate on several trips out west. She was a devoted wife, adored mother and grandmother, dear friend, community volunteer, and an absolute “ball of fire” to those fortunate enough to know her. Her infectious smile, zest for life, and immeasurable grace will be remembered well by her friends and family.

Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, her stepmother Billie Dunn Godwin, and her brother-in-law William Stewart. She is survived by her beloved husband of 61 years, James Oliver Gargis; her brother Albert Godwin and his wife, Karen, and her sister Jean Godwin Stewart. She is also survived by her sons, James Neil Gargis and wife, Amanda, and Albert Jesse Gargis and wife, Elizabeth; her grandchildren Jesse and Mary Kate Gargis, Lilly and Caroline Gargis, and Jay and Molly Creamer; her nieces and nephews Benjamin Godwin, Adam Godwin, Shelley Jaudon, Kelly Creed and Paige Stafford. She will be also remembered by many other friends and family members.

Nancy’s family will celebrate her life and legacy on Saturday, March 29th at 2:00pm at her home church, First Presbyterian Church of Newton. They will receive guests beginning at 1:00pm. A graveside service will follow at Southside Cemetery in Newton.