Helen Hulcher "Nan" Sowers

SOWERS, Helen Hulcher "Nan," 90, of Powhatan, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, February 4, 2009 surrounded by her loving family. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 68 years, James R. "Jim" Sowers; and her beloved daughter, Sue Montague. She is survived by her sister, Nancy Williams; four devoted children, Jimmy Sowers (Pinckey), Lu Redfern (Warren), Pat Goodman (Steve) and Billy Sowers (Stephanie); her son-in-law, John Montague (Jean); her 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, whom she greatly cherished; many nieces, nephews, relatives and wonderful friends. She was a graduate of Cathedral High School, married Jim in 1941 and started a family in 1942, a family she would guide and nurture throughout her wonderful life. She spent many days at the Cherry Grove Beach and Nags Head, where she found great joy being around family and friends. "What Would Nan Do?" was inspiration to all of us. Nan's grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life and will ever be touched and influenced by her countless hours spent with them and her unending love for them. In 1980, she and Jim moved from Stratford Hills to Flatrock, where her door was always open. She was always the genesis for large family gatherings, whatever the occasion may have been. She was an active member of St. John Neumann's Catholic Church and a member of the Powhatan Women's Club. She enjoyed quilting, painting, sewing, traveling and lunch with her friends. Her good humor, giving personality, passion for her family and friends, unique grace, and her strong faith inspired all who knew her. She never complained, rather just moved forward. She has gone to be with her Lord, husband and daughter, where she will continue to watch over and bless us all. She will be sorely missed, but her memory will live forever. A special thanks to her many caregivers, especially Pam, Brittany, Lora, Tyshea and Lou for their loving and gentle care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John Neumann's Catholic Church or Huguenot Blessed Sacrament School. Her remains rest at Bliley's Funeral Home-Central Chapel, 3801 Augusta Ave., where the family will receive friends Friday from 4 to 8 p.m., with a prayer service at 5 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, February 7, at 12 noon at St. John Neumann's Catholic Church. Interment Westhampton Memorial Park.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.