Nancy Dale Taber

Nancy Dale Taber of Irmo, SC, formerly of Dover, MA, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Born in Providence, RI, on May 18, 1932, she was the daughter of the late Owen and Susan Chatterton.

Nancy is survived by her son, Wesley D. Taber, and his wife, Elaine, of Columbia, SC; her daughter, Dale C. O’Keefe, and her husband, John, of Irmo, SC; her grandchildren, Daniel Taber of Charleston, SC, Lauren Woody and her husband Wes, of Durham, NC, and Andrea Fortson and her husband Michael of Raleigh, NC; and her great-grandchildren, Connor Fortson (step-great grandson) and Owen Fortson. She was predeceased by her husband of sixty years, William Russell Taber, and her brother, Arnold Chatterton.

A dedicated educator, Nancy attended the University of Rhode Island and later earned her degree in Education from William Paterson College. She taught for over twenty-five years in the Dover-Sherborn School District, inspiring countless students with her passion for learning. Deeply committed to her community, she was an active member of the Dover Church, where she served a term as Moderator—the second woman ever to hold that distinction. She was also appointed by the Governor as a Justice of the Peace for the State of Massachusetts, reflecting her integrity and civic dedication.

Throughout her life, Nancy pursued her many passions with enthusiasm. An avid reader and enthusiastic gardener, she found joy in nurturing both minds and blooms. She was a lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots, cheering them on through “thick and thin”. Together with her beloved husband Bill, she cherished their sixty years of marriage, filled with adventures such as boating on Narragansett Bay and traveling to distant lands. They delighted in spending time with family and friends, creating cherished memories.

After relocating to Irmo, SC, to be closer to their grandchildren, Nancy and Bill embraced the Southern lifestyle with open arms. They joined Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church and became active in their Ascot neighborhood. Nancy was a bundle of energy who never seemed to stop. She was a member of “The Book Club”, the YMCA water aerobics class, the fun-loving Bunco group, she traveled to the castles of Scotland and a meaningful trip to the Holy Lands in Israel. She lived a full and rewarding life, embraced it all gracefully and made new and lasting friendships wherever she went.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and caregivers at Columbia Presbyterian Community and Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate and loving care.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Chapel of the Columbia Presbyterian Community, located at 700 DaVega Drive, Lexington, SC 29073 on October 3, 2025 at 2:00 pm.