Nancy Rhett Haigh Stankowski

May 27, 1956 – August 21, 2025

With grace and peace, Nancy Rhett Haigh Stankowski entered eternal rest on August 21, 2025, at the age of 69, at The Landings of Swansboro in Swansboro, North Carolina, following a long illness.

Born on May 27, 1956, at Ft. Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina, Nancy was the daughter of Col. William W. DeLoach and Phyllis A. Dukes DeLoach. As the child of a military family, she lived across the United States and overseas—experiences that inspired a lifelong love of travel, exploration, and cultural curiosity. These early adventures instilled in her the resilience, joy, and gratitude that defined her character.

Nancy graduated with honors from Lander College in 1978, where she served as editor-in-chief of the college newspaper. She later achieved a master's degree, reflecting her deep commitment to personal growth.

Her life's work was one of service. Nancy devoted 28 years to public service in Special Services for both the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army. Her career included assignments at Parris Island, Guam, Camp Lejeune, and New River Air Station. She made history as the first female Athletic Director for the Marine Corps, a role in which she exemplified professionalism, compassion, and heartfelt dedication to others.

Nancy's vibrant spirit touched all who knew her. Her quick wit, infectious laughter, and kind heart made her a source of warmth and light. She adored lighthearted humor and slapstick comedy and never missed an opportunity to bring joy to those around her.

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Nancy's greatest source of pride was her family. She celebrated their achievements, uplifted them during challenges, and created cherished memories that will endure for generations. She loved the outdoors—especially time at the beach—and could often be found hiking, kayaking, or discovering new places, always embracing life with enthusiasm and gratitude.

Her faith was her anchor, and her love for her country was unwavering. Nancy leaves behind a legacy of joy, faith, strength, and unconditional love.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 23 years, Bill Stankowski of Swansboro, NC; her former husband, David Haigh of Albuquerque, NM; her beloved children, William Haigh, Audrey (Mike) Lutz, and Leigh Ann Haigh, all of Swansboro, NC; brother Chris (Lisa) DeLoach of Mt. Pleasant, SC; grandchildren Emma and Evan Lutz; niece Sarah DeLoach; nephews Marc DeLoach and Aaron Struthers; Bill's children, Timothy Stankowski and Rebekah Canter, and many other extended family members and dear friends.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Lisa Brewer.

A funeral service will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in the chapel of Jones Funeral Home in Swansboro, with Rev. Luke Brakefield officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:30 a.m., one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery in Jacksonville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association at alz.org.