The days dawn less bright and the joy of the world is diminished for those who knew and loved Nancy Carter Dunn, 75, of Cumming, Georgia who passed through nature to eternity on her way to laying her crowns at the feet of our Lord.

Nancy had been receiving hospice care at Brickmont Woodstock, an assisted living facility in Woodstock, Georgia, before succumbing to cancer and departing this mortal coil July 9, 2026.

Nancy Lee Carter first drew breath on June 17, 1951, in Atlanta. Born the second child of Melvin Whitehead Carter, Ph.D., and Martha Ann Carter, née Waggoner, Nancy's childhood was divided between Atlanta; Oak Ridge, Tennessee; Cincinnati, Ohio; Las Vegas, Nevada (twice); Gainesville, Florida and Montgomery, Alabama.

Music was always a large part of Nancy's life. To represent her high school in concert and marching bands, Nancy mastered the clarinet winning a seat on the Alabama All-State band her junior year. A highlight for Nancy was seeing the Beatles in Atlanta at the then-brand-new Fulton County Stadium in 1965.

After receiving a Bachelor of Arts (music) from Agnes Scott College and a Master of Arts (history) from the University of Georgia, Nancy became a piano teacher. She was active in professional music teaching associations, published in the American Music Teacher, and served as President of the Gwinnett County Music Teachers Association for two years.

Johns Creek United Methodist Church was her spiritual home for many years. Nancy played organ and piano for worship and concerts, accompanying children, youth, and adult choirs. She was proudly featured on harpsichord in a full orchestral performance of Handel's Messiah. She also served briefly as a pianist for the Lanier Church of God in Buford, Georgia.

Once, while visiting the Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale, Arizona, Nancy simply could not stroll past a Steinway grand in the entrance lobby, its lid and

fallboard invitingly raised. As she sat, a docent appeared, walking toward her. Perhaps it wasn't meant to be played. As she addressed the keys, more docents appeared. Debussy's Reflections in the Water filled the space, a piece as complex and challenging to play as it is delightful to hear, the music drawing docent upon docent, those who appreciate music the most deserting their posts, irresistibly drawn to appreciate and then to applaud, at length. Such was the gift God gave her, which she used to educate, inspire and entertain.

Nancy had many interests besides music. Her priority was family, which she attended with loving care. The weeklong annual family reunion at an Alabama lake was always anticipated. Second priority was her friends, with whom she met regularly over many decades. She was also an avid birder and photographer, hobbies she pursued while traveling far and wide, travel being another favored pursuit. Her favorite trip was a month spent with family at a farmhouse in Umbria.

Following her divorce, Nancy worked in the Bell System for twelve years, starting in customer service and ending by developing courses to train AT&T employees.

Nancy is survived by four siblings: Brother William Brent Carter, Ph.D., his wife Stephanie; brother Douglas Hope Carter; brother Melvin Bruce Carter, MD, his wife Linda; sister Victoria Ann Smith and her husband Thomas Smith, Ph.D.

Her nieces and nephews include Samuel Albert Carter; Kelly Jo Carter; Amy Sue Urrabazo; George Whitehead Carter; Anna Christine Smith; Maria Elizabeth Suarez; Grace Katherine Smith; Rachel Linda Smith. Grandnephews are Benjamin Bruce Bravo and Isaiah Zachariah Hall; Heaven Angel Martinez is a grandniece.

They all cherish fond memories of Fancy Aunt Nancy, especially her love of life, adventurous spirit, quick intellect, and keen sense of humor.

Nancy is predeceased by grandniece Faith Ann Carter and former husband, Barry Dunn.

Attended by Brent and Vicki, while flights of angels sang, Nancy drew her final breath. The keys were stilled and the world became quieter, emptier, and less beautiful.

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A Celebration of Life and reception will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2:30 PM, at Johns Creek United Methodist Church, Johns Creek, Georgia, followed by a private ceremony at Masters Cemetery in Ellenwood, Georgia.

Nancy expressed a desire for flowers. Contributions may also be made to the church in her name.