Cary Preston Gary Nelson Fox

Cary Preston Gary Nelson Fox passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Cary Gary Nelson, and William Walker Nelson.

She is survived by her husband, Edward Heald Fox married for 64 years, and their four children: Thomas Hubert Fox II, his wife Reem, and his 3 children, Ned, TJ and Trevor; Cary Fox Williams (Casy), her husband Chris and their 2 children, Preston and Grace; Caperton Fox Campbell; and Elizabeth Fox Ball, her husband Dave, and their 2 children, Scooter and Stuart. She is also survived by her brother, William Walker Nelson, Jr.

Cary was born on December 31, 1939, and grew up in Norfolk, Virginia. She moved to Lynchburg at the age of 15, graduated from EC Glass High School, and attended Mary Washington College.

Cary grew up riding horses and had an instant passion for animals. She spent many summers at Camp Carysbrook which always held a special place in her heart. Whether it was cats, dogs, birds, or even a skunk at home, she enjoyed feeding the wildlife as well. Birds, stray dogs/cats, and chipmunks never went hungry, but the racoons daily knocking on the door to be fed, was a sight to behold.

Known as "Mammam" to her grandchildren, Cary made sure that they were spoiled but that reading was their favorite pass time. Her own passion for reading started at the age of 8 and her absolute dream came true in owning her own bookstore, "The Bookstore", for many years. She loved making sure that her customers always had a "good read", a great gift to give, or other fun items throughout the store.

In her spare time, Cary loved cooking. She was named "Betty Crocker Homemaker of Tomorrow," while a senior at E.C. Glass and her passion for cooking never waned. Whether out of her favorite cookbooks or Southern Living, Cary was always trying new recipes and was known as a wonderful cook. Even with dementia, Cary never lost her great sense of humor and ability to make others smile, slipping in a few "not so nice" vocabulary in, in the meantime.

A visitation will be held at Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg on Sunday, July 6, 2025, from 2 – 3 pm. A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 7, 2025, at 11 am at Spring Hill Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the Humane Society in Lynchburg, the Audubon Society, or any charity of your choice.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.