Mike Nance

Ronald Michael "Mike" Nance, 57, of Greenville, North Carolina, passed away on July 26, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. After a year of challenges, Mike continued to show the strength, determination, and resilience that defined the man he was. He was born on August 8, 1968, in Newport News, Virginia, to Jim and Patricia Nance.

Mike was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, grandfather, and friend whose greatest joy in life was his family. Known for his sharp wit, clever sense of humor, unwavering determination, and generous heart, Mike worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved and believed one of life's greatest purposes was building up the people around him. Whether through encouragement, guidance, or simply showing up when someone needed him most, Mike made others feel valued and capable. His greatest gift was making people believe in themselves. He invested his time, wisdom, and encouragement into everyone around him, always wanting to see others succeed.

Mike proudly served as the Director of Dining Services at East Carolina University, where he dedicated himself to his work with the same integrity, leadership, and commitment that defined every aspect of his life. He believed in hard work, leading by example, and treating others with kindness and respect.

Outside of work, Mike found joy on the golf course, took great pride in caring for his yard, and rarely missed the opportunity to watch football, basketball, or baseball. He appreciated life’s simple pleasures, but nothing compared to the time he spent with his family.

Mike’s greatest joy was his family, and he was especially grateful for the life he shared with his wife, Ruby. He loved her deeply, was proud to call her his wife, and cherished the family they built together.

Becoming “Papa” to Celeste was one of Mike’s greatest joys. He was endlessly proud of her and celebrated every milestone she reached. The love they shared was a special bond that brought him immeasurable happiness.

Mike was a man of faith and attended Salem United Methodist Church. His Christian faith guided the way he loved others and the life he lived.

Mike was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Lloyd and Hattie Walters; paternal grandparents, Clyde and Dorothy Nance; uncles: Duck Walters, Russell Walters and aunt, Judy Walters.

He is survived by his loving wife, Ruby Nance; his daughter, Autumn Walker and her husband, Dante Walker; and his granddaughter, Celeste Walker. He is also survived by his parents, Jim and Patricia Nance; his brother, Donald Nance and his wife, Stacey Nance, along with their daughters, Laura Hazel Nance and Macey Nance; and his sister, Jaime Thrailkill, her husband, Scott Thrailkill, and their daughter, Peyton Thrailkill.

To his daughter, Mike was more than a father—he was her best friend, her biggest supporter, and the steady presence she could always count on.

Mike’s legacy is not measured by titles or accomplishments, but by the countless lives he touched through his generosity, steadfast love, unwavering support, and belief in others. His presence made people feel stronger, his laughter made difficult days lighter, and his love will continue to shape the lives of those he leaves behind.

Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in knowing that his faith has carried him home. His memory will forever be a blessing, and his example will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A funeral service honoring Mike will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Salem United Methodist Church, 785 McDonald St., Simpson, NC 27879. The service will begin at 1:00 p.m., with a visitation immediately following. Family and friends are warmly invited to join us as we gather to remember his life, share memories, and honor the love, kindness, and legacy he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to https://salemmethodist.org/give/