Nancy Parenti Nicholls

Nancy Parenti Nicholls of Edenton, NC passed away on June 19, 2026 in her home surrounded by her family. Nancy was born on April 29, 1948, in Burlington, VT. She was the daughter of the late James Mark Parenti and Marion Mario Parenti.

A graduate of Pierce College for Women, Nancy pursued a career and raised her family while living in New England. In 1990, the family relocated from Williamstown, MA to Edenton, NC, a town that captured her heart. Nancy’s career in Edenton began by working for the Edenton-Chowan Chamber of Commerce, before becoming the Tourism Director for Edenton and Chowan County in 1992. Through both jobs, she had the opportunity of a lifetime to invite visitors into the world that she and her family had treasured every day since settling on the Albemarle Sound. During the course of Nancy’s 29 year career, she led efforts to establish regional and statewide partnerships, promoting Northeastern North Carolina’s rich historical, cultural, and environmental assets.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 57 years, John Joseph Nicholls; her son Brandon John Nicholls (Ashley Clemons) of Charlotte, NC; her daughter Tori Nicholls Griffin (Trent Griffin) of Chesterfield, VA; and her two grandchildren, Ellie Maddox Griffin and Payton Trent Griffin. Nancy is also survived by her husband’s family, Dr. James D. Nicholls of Bow, NH; Jerry M. Nicholls (Kathy Nicholls) of Greer, SC; and Mary E. Wolfe (Alan Wolfe) of Fairhaven, MA.

A memorial mass will be offered at St. Ann Catholic Church on July 7, 2026 at 11:00 am, conducted by Father Anit Augustine Jacob, M.S. and the Rev. Mr. Frank T. Jones. Friends may visit with the family in the Fellowship Hall immediately following the service.

Contributions in Nancy’s memory may be made to ECU Health Chowan Hospital Development Council, PO Box 629, Edenton, NC 27932 (Oncology) or to St. Ann Catholic Church, 207 North Broad Street, Edenton, NC.

The family wishes to express a very special “Thank You” to Dr. Michael Hopkins, former Hematologist, and the incredible staff at ECU Chowan Health Hospital Outpatient Specialty Clinic. Please share a memory with the family via the Online Guestbook.