Nancy Kay (Bryant) Bass

Nancy Kay Bass, 74, of Powell, TN, passed into eternal life on April 4, 2026, at home following a battle with cancer.

Nancy was born in Yancey County, NC, to the late David and Ora Lee (Renfro) Bryant on May 24, 1951. She spent her early childhood in Erwin, TN, before her family moved to Connecticut, where she lived in Windham and Manchester until settling in Powell, TN, in 2014.

She was proud of her career at Southern New England Telephone Company which she retired from. Beginning as a telephone operator, she trailblazed her way up and into the business world. Working for Nutmeg State Financial Credit Union, an ambassador of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, and an independent consultant for Mary Kay Cosmetics, she formed invaluable relationships. With grace, she let her voice be heard while sitting at tables with those in community and statewide leadership roles. She served with organizations like Rebuilding Together and Dress for Success. She was a leading lady who imparted her wisdom to those around her, especially other women.

From soulful meals to comforting baked goods, she was a master in the kitchen. Her granddaughters always requested she bake their birthday cakes, being continuously amazed by their nana’s skill. From ballroom to line dance, her love of music and spirit shone. From tennis to pickleball, fun was had while memories were made. From dinners for two to modeling to road trips to gardening to surprises and long phone calls - her love for her daughter was unwavering.

Nancy was a treasured mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is remembered by her adoring family: daughter Teri Lupacchino and her husband, Marc, of Hebron, CT; granddaughter Nicole Lupacchino; granddaughter Sarah Caldwell and her husband, Thomas; great-granddaughter Elena; and sisters Mary Ann Graybeal and Hazel Tolley. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Betty Jean Edwards and Almarie Suter.

The family would like to thank the oncology team at the University of Tennessee Medical Center for their guidance, compassion, and caring hands through this difficult journey. We are forever grateful for each of you.

A celebration of life will be held in the Evergreen Mausoleum in Erwin, TN on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 12 p.m. with Pastor Kevin Laws officiating. Those wishing to attend Nancy’s service are asked to meet at the mausoleum by 11:50 a.m. on Monday. Family and friends will serve as pallbearers.  

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to: Cancer Support Community East Tennessee or Blood Cancer United.

https://cscet.gnosishosting.net/Portal/Donate https://bloodcancerunited.org/

Nancy’s obituary was lovingly written by her family.

Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with Nancy's family at www.ledfordfuneralhomes.com 

Robert Ledford Funeral Home, 720 Ohio Avenue, Erwin, is privileged to serve Nancy's family. (423) 743-1380

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