Nan Elizabeth Barnes Montague

Nan Elizabeth Barnes Montague, 86, a native of Wayne County who moved to Asheville, NC later in life, slipped the bonds of earth on June 4, 2020 to be in her heavenly home after a short, sudden illness.  Nan was a dear wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and generous friend to countless people.  She left us the same way she lived—in peace, with grace and compassion, surrounded both in body and spirit by loved ones, and fulfilling her wish to never be a burden.

Nan was a saint among us all—kind, thoughtful, always making and keeping friends.  She was a loving and caring wife, but always willing and able to keep Bob in line.  She was the best mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother one could ever want—supportive, accepting, forgiving and generous with her love and praise.  She always strived to give more than she took, to love without boundaries or conditions, and to set a Christ-like example in the lives she touched.

Nan was preceded in death by her parents, William and Alice Barnes, her in-laws, Ira and Polly Montague, whom she loved like parents, and her brother, Bill Barnes.  She is survived by her husband of nearly 68 years, Bob Montague, her daughter Debbie Montague and partner Chuck Price, daughter Terri Moody and husband Allen, and son Rob Montague and partner Greg Lisenbee.  Nan also is survived by a lifelong friend whom she considered a sister, Sharon Carter.  Nan was also loved by grandchildren Jeff Green, John Green, Brianna Radford, Kait Radford, Allena Moody, Rachel Moody and great-grandchildren Preston Smilack, James Green, Buck Green, and Reagan Green.  Survivors also include her sister-in-law Peggy Barnes and cousin Sandra Smith, who were very special to her, as well as nieces and nephews she loved:  Howard Montague, Becky Weeks, Linda Blackley, Vanessa Murray, Chip Barnes and Kim Clifton.

At a later time, the family plans a Celebration of Life in her native Wayne County.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests remembrance contributions to Salem United Methodist Church, 2706 Salem Church Road, Goldsboro, NC 27530, Asbury United Methodist Church, 171 Beaverdam Road, Asheville, NC 28804, Rathbun House, 121 Sherwood Road, Asheville, NC 28803, or your favorite charity.

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