Nancy Joanne Widener

We regret to announce the passing of Nancy Joanne Widener while at her home in Thomasville, Georgia in the presence of her sons, James & Alan Widener, and brother, Timothy Lowery, on July 2, 2025.

While one day short of 76 years old, Nancy lived a full life and created a wonderful family. She was an avid runner, often winning first in her age group throughout her life, until recently when her rheumatoid arthritis became too painful for her to continue running. She was the first Thomas County female finisher in the Rose City Run in 1989 and 2002. Throughout her life, she lived in many places, more recently returning to Thomasville after having lived there about three decades ago. She loved pets and had a cat and two dogs. 

Born in Mobile, Alabama, Nancy grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. She attended Montreat College in Montreat, North Carolina, as well as East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee. She worked as a physical education teacher and later as a registered nurse.

Nancy is survived by her son James Widener (Tallahassee, FL), daughter-in-law Tomomi Widener, grandchildren Emily & Juliette Widener, son Alan Widener (Peachtree City, GA),daughter-in-law Faye Widener, grandchildren Amy & Ava Widener, brother Timothy Lowery(Santa Fe, NM), and former spouse, Steve Widener (Macon, GA). She was predeceased by her identical twin sister, Joyce Lowery, who passed away in 2004 in Tallahassee.

The Widener family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Michael Gee, Archbold Hospice, longtime friend, Robert Hoelzle (Alligator Point, FL), Nancy’s cousin, Delores Peavy(Mobile, AL), and all of the other friends and neighbors who helped her immensely during this difficult time.

A Memorial Service will be held Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at 2 pm, at Grace United Methodist Church, where Nancy was a member, which holds services at the Parish Hall of St.Thomas Episcopal Church in Thomasville. Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, can be made to Grace United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 1246, Thomasville, GA 31799.