Nancy Hollingsworth Brown

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Nancy Hollingsworth Brown, a cherished educator, loving mother, devoted wife, and treasured friend, who left this world on June 20, 2026, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer. Nancy passed peacefully at her home, surrounded by family, under the gentle care of hospice and wonderful caregivers from Home Instead, fulfilling her deep wish to be at home.m

Born on October 29, 1939, in the charming city of Asheville, NC, Nancy was the beloved daughter of Dr. LH and Bess Hollingsworth. Her early years in Boone, NC, were marked by warmth and familial love, shared with her identical twin sister, Pat Holshouser, and her sister Linda Simms. Nancy’s life was enriched by her strong educational foundation, beginning at Appalachian High School, from which she graduated in 1958. Her academic journey led her to Wake Forest University and later the University of Maryland, where she earned both her masters' and PhD degrees.

Nancy's professional life was a testament to her passion for early childhood education. She served in various capacities—from teaching at all educational levels to administrative and consultancy roles in both public and private sectors. Her tenure at the NC DHHS, NCSU, and as the inaugural director of the childcare center at the US Senate, highlighted her dedication to shaping young minds and advocating for children.

Her volunteer work was equally impressive, involving national and state boards such as NAEYC and NCPC, and local institutions like the Frankie Lemmon and Lucy Daniels Schools. Nancy’s life and career were dedicated to the betterment of early childhood programs and parental support, leaving a legacy of love and learning.

Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Jim Amundson, with whom she shared a love for golf, bridge, travel, and a deep involvement in family and church activities. Her twin sister Pat, Pat’s husband Jim, her parents, and many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins also preceded her in death. She is survived by her children: Victor Brown, Jr., daughter Deanna Brown-Johnson and husband Richard Johnson and son Kasey Butler and wife Alyssa Butler. Her sister Linda and husband Tom Simms. She leaves behind, nephew Jeff Simms, his wife Heidi Kitlas and their son Lucas; niece, Amy Simms MacLean and husband Michael, their daughters, Lindsay and Emma; along with niece, Ginny Mills, husband John, their daughter, Holly Mills Henry, husband Curtis, their daughter, Lyla, Ginny and John’s daughter Maggie Mills Amaya, husband David, their daughters, Emi and Lucy.

Nancy was a loving grandmother to her grandson Kasey, with whom she shared a special bond, celebrating their shared birthday with joy. She also treasured her relationship with step granddaughter, Alex, time spent with her, her brother Adrian Johnson, his wife Autumn, and their children. Her stepdaughters Lynn Roudebush and her children, Kim Gross, step-granddaughter Jenna Moss, husband Dalton, and their daughters Journey and Marley, as well as many cousins and their children, all held a special place in her heart. Others in Jim's family were dear to Nancy and her family.

Nancy found community and purpose at Cresthill Baptist Church in Bowie, MD, and later at Millbrook Baptist Church, where she was an active member since 1985. Her church family was a cornerstone of her life, where she served diligently and formed lasting friendships.

Known for her quick wit, kind spirit, and unwavering willingness to help others, Nancy was a beacon of love and support to her family and community. Her commitment to a healthy lifestyle, walking, and swimming well into her senior years, was a testament to her positive outlook on life.

A memorial service to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held on September 13, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Millbrook Baptist Church, located at 1519 E Millbrook Rd, Raleigh, NC 27609. The service will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/MillbrookBaptistChurch. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Millbrook Baptist Church, the Frankie Lemmon School and Developmental Center, or a hospice organization in your area, such as Lower Cape Fear Hospice, in honor of Nancy’s legacy.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have been a part of Nancy’s journey. Her impact on those around her will be remembered with love and admiration, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew and loved her.