Edward Warren Nance Sr.

Edward Warren Nance, Sr. October 21, 1923 - October 31, 2011 Edward Warren Nance, Sr., 88, died Monday, October 31, 2011 at his home in Bakersfield, California. Mr. Nance was born in Raleigh, North Carolina on October 21, 1923. He was married to Ursula Victoria Smith for 62 years. Mr. Nance served his country honorably in the United States Army from 1944-1947 in the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion better known as the "Triple Nickel" (the first African- American paratroopers). He was deployed to Europe where he was awarded a Bronze Star. After serving his country, he went to work at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. In 1950 he left the Bureau and began working at the General Service Administration until he retired. In 1984, Edward and Ursula moved to Bakersfield, CA. Mr. Nance loved to sing and was a founding member of Heritage singing group. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and gardener. He was a member of the National Rifle Association, the N.A.A.C.P.; he was a Mason, as well as a community activist. Mr. Nance is preceded in death by his parents, and 4 siblings. Those left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Ursula Nance; children, Denise P. Blackwell (Willard) of Bowie, MD; Sheryl R. Nance of Bakersfield, CA; Edward W. Nance, Jr. (Phyllis) of Bakersfield, CA; Edwin W. Ortiz-Nance (Mary) of Fresno, CA; Douglas W. Nance (Martina) of Washington, D.C.; 2 brothers, Claude Jr. and Forrest Nance (Wilma); 2 sisters, Ella Mae Augustus and Rachel Nance; 15 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. Visitation will be held on Monday, November 7, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. with an hour of meditation starting at 6:00 p.m. at Ruckers Mortuary, 301 Baker Street. Services will be held on Tuesday, November 8, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Peter Restoration Community Christian Ministries, 510 East Brundage Lane followed by burial at Bakersfield National Cemetery. www.bakersfield.com/obits