Nancy Joyce Biard Nance, Longtime Paris Resident, Dies at 95

Nance was a dedicated community volunteer and lifelong member of the Christian Church.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Nancy Joyce Biard Nance, a longtime resident of Paris, Texas, passed away on March 2, 2026, at the age of 95. Nance was born in Marshall, Texas in 1930 and lived an active life filled with community service, volunteering, and involvement in her local Christian church.

Why it matters

Nance's passing marks the end of an era for Paris, as she was a pillar of the community who dedicated decades of her life to serving others through her work with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and the local food pantry. Her lifelong commitment to her faith and community values is an inspiration to many.

The details

Nance was born to Jefferson Braden Biard and Monica Terry Biard, and was delivered at home by her grandfather, Dr. Andrew Crowder Biard. She married Elbert Sidney Nance in 1951, and the couple lived in several Texas cities before retiring to Paris to be closer to their daughter's family. Nance worked as an accountant and real estate agent over the course of her career, but was best known for her extensive volunteer work and leadership roles within the Christian Church.

  • Nance was born on June 24, 1930 in Marshall, Texas.
  • Nance married Elbert Sidney Nance on June 24, 1951.
  • Nance passed away on March 2, 2026 at the age of 95.

The players

Nancy Joyce Biard Nance

A longtime resident of Paris, Texas who was deeply involved in her local Christian church and community organizations.

Elbert Sidney Nance

Nance's husband of 74 years, with whom she retired to Paris.

Terry Andrea Barnett

Nance's daughter, with whom she moved to Paris to be closer to.

Cypress Creek Christian Church

The church where Nance served as the second board chairman, making her the first woman to chair a church board in the Southwest Region of the Christian Church.

Habitat for Humanity

An organization Nance served on the founding board of and volunteered with for 11 years as treasurer.

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What they’re saying

“Nancy was a pillar of the Paris community who dedicated her life to serving others through her church and local organizations. She will be deeply missed.”

— Terry Andrea Barnett, Nance's daughter (myparistexas.com)

What’s next

Nance's funeral services are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at Bright-Holland Funeral Home, with Rev. Chad Lamb officiating. Private burial will follow in Meadowbrook Gardens.

The takeaway

Nance's lifelong commitment to her faith, community, and spirit of volunteerism serves as an inspiring example of how one person can make a lasting impact on their local area. Her legacy will continue to live on through the many organizations and individuals she touched over her 95 years.