Family and faith were two of the most important things to Nancy Alexander Milstead. So it was fitting that when she passed away on February 22, 2025, she was surrounded by many of those she loved the most.

Nancy was born November 23, 1932, in Stony Point, N.C., to K.C. and Nettie Alexander. She was one of six children, and her brothers and sisters would be her best friends for life.

After graduating from Stony Point High School, she married Raymond E. Milstead on May 17, 1953, and lived happily for 40 years until his death in 1993.

Her life in Statesville was a full one filled with people she loved and a faith she was devoted to. Nancy was an active member of First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School. She also spent much of her time volunteering in the community, as well as caring for children in her home after school.

Nancy was known for welcoming family and friends into her home and into her heart. She always had a smile and a hug for you. She might also have one of her famous pies, persimmon pudding or pound cakes on the counter to serve you!

Her two sons and their children, along with her nieces and nephews and their children, gave her the greatest joy. You could always find Nancy cheering them on at sporting events, playing pick-up basketball with them in the driveway, or riding along in the boat on Lake Norman.

Nancy would be the first to tell you she thanked the Lord for her wonderful life.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Judy Alexander and Shirley A. Johnson; one sister-in-law, Jo Alexander; one brother, Jim Alexander and wife Nancy; and nephew, Tim Alexander.

She is survived by two sons, Joel R. Milstead (Kris) and William Michael Milstead (Julia). Further survivors include one granddaughter, Kristen Milstead; and two grandsons, Michael (Brittany) and William Milstead. Other survivors include one brother, Tommy Alexander; one sister, Peggy A. Brendle (Bill); several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 16, at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church, with Rev. Nelson Grenade officiating. The family will visit with friends following the service. There will be a private burial at Oakwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Fifth Street Ministries, 1421 5th Street, Statesville, NC 28677, or to St Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or to Gordon Hospice House, 2341 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625.

Troutman Funeral Home is honored to serve the Milstead family.