Nancy Jane Perry

Nancy Jane Norris Perry of Sylva, NC

Nancy “Jane” Perry, age 91, passed peacefully at Silver Bluff Village on February 13, 2026.

A native of Watauga County, she was the daughter of the late Cloyd Norris and Blanche Miller Norris. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Kenneth (Ken) Perry who died in 1981.

She is survived by her daughters, Deborah “Debbie” Perry of Scotia, NY, Renee Corbin of Sylva and granddaughters Courtney Corbin and husband Chris Sanford of Seneca, SC, Tia Corbin of Sylva and one sister, Lois Bryant of High Point. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews, Gary and sister Gail Gregory of Raleigh, Keith Bryant of Greensboro, and Lenore Hartzog of Auburn, Alabama.

Jane was a retired registered nurse who spent most of her career working with senior citizens. She trained in Morganton, NC at a nursing hospital where she found her passion of caring for others and teaching others about nursing care. She served in several different roles during her nursing career including a health department nurse, a nursing instructor at Southwestern Community College, and her favorite role as Home Health Director for Jackson County before retiring. She loved working with older adults and there she found her true calling to serve. She worked tirelessly to help older adults stay independent in their homes by providing care and company.

As Home Health Director, she was instrumental in obtaining Lifeline alert systems and Meals on Wheels programs for older citizens of Jackson County. She also provided programs for older adults through the Department on Aging during her tenure as Director.

After retiring in 1996, she enjoyed time with her grandchildren, traveling, and being a member of First Baptist Church in Sylva. She served the older adults in her church and many came to call on her when there was a need for an elderly member. Jane was a true example of selflessness to others and always had a smile for everyone and showed kindness towards others. She led by example. She asked that friends, former colleagues and family remember her by doing a good deed or saying a kind word to others.

The family wishes to recognize and thank Rita Mathis and Mary Ferrick, two very special caregivers who helped with Jane’s care.

A visitation will be held from 2:00 until 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 21, 2026 at Appalachian Funeral Services. A private burial will follow at Fairview Memorial Gardens.

Appalachian Funeral Home in Sylva is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to MemoryCare of Asheville, NC c/o The SECU Center for MemoryCare,100 Far Horizons Lane, Asheville, NC 28803 or the Jackson County Meals on Wheels program, 100 County Services Park, Sylva, NC 28779.