Nancy Carolyn Philo

Nancy Carson Philo, 90, of Corsicana, Texas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 16, 2025.
She was born on May 14, 1935, in Hamilton, Kansas, the youngest of five children to Raymond Carson and Caroline Kathary Carson. Nancy grew up in Hamilton, where she graduated from Hamilton High School in 1953. A gifted athlete and natural leader, she served as captain of the basketball team and once scored an impressive 45 points in a single game. She was also active in the Pep Club and the band.
Nancy continued her education at Emporia State University, graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Education. While in college, she was a member of the Future Teachers of America, the Women's Physical Education Club, and Business, and was active in the Alpha Sigma Tau and Alpha Beta organizations.
On July 5, 1958, Nancy married the love of her life, Claude Philo. Together they shared a marriage that spanned more than six decades, built on devotion, laughter, and enduring love.
Nancy's faith was a central part of her life. She was a longtime member of First Methodist Church in Corsicana, where she faithfully attended the Christian Adult Sunday School Class and took part in many projects and service opportunities.
She also had a deep love of sports throughout her life. An excellent tennis player, Nancy, enjoyed staying active and competing. She was also a skilled bridge player, known for her sharp mind and love of friendly competition. A die-hard Kansas City Chiefs fan, she cheered faithfully for her team through every season.
Her Kansas roots always stayed close to her heart-she loved the open prairies and especially sunflowers, which brought her joy throughout her life.
Nancy dedicated many years to her career, retiring from Collin Street Bakery in Corsicana, where she worked as office manager. She was known for her professionalism, warm spirit, and the friendships she built with colleagues and customers alike.
Beyond her work, she gave generously of her time to the community, volunteering at the local museum and with Habitat for Humanity.
Nancy is survived by her daughter Peggy Cowart and her husband Pat, son Mark Philo, and son, Craig Philo and his wife Jennifer, Grandchildren Jonathon Philo, Corban Philo, Maddox Philo, Maccoy Philo, Sean Cowart, Bekah Hale, and Callie Cowart. She was preceded in death by her husband Claude Philo, Brothers Richard "Dick" Carson, and Larry Carson, and sisters Norma Jean Scholes, and Dorothy "Dot" Schul, and numerous Nieces, Nephews and Friends.
She will be remembered for her dedication to education, her enthusiasm for athletics, her generosity in service, and most of all, her devotion to family and friends. Her warm smile, competitive spirit, and giving heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
Corley Funeral Home will handle the Cremation Services. A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 3, 2025, at 11:00 am at the First Methodist Church in Corsicana. In Lieu of Flowers, please make donations to First Methodist Church, First Methodist Church Food for Fitness, or Habitat for Humanity in Corsicana.