Crossville, TN - Nancy Janel Hyder, 75, of Crossville, passed away April 5, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of service, kindness, and unwavering devotion to others.

Nancy worked as an educator and coach at Cumberland County High School for 37 years touching countless lives through her guidance, wisdom, humor, and investment in each student and player. She once said, "I was always drawn to those kids that I could help the most." Numerous former students and players can testify to being recipients of her help and kindness.

Following the death of her father, county commissioner Bill Hyder, Nancy became the first female commissioner serving the 2nd District for almost 36 years. She continued her father's legacy by approaching public service with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those she represented.

She believed in doing the right thing, even when it was difficult, and worked tirelessly to serve her community with honesty and dedication. She also served on several boards in Cumberland County. Her most recent recognition was her induction into CCHS Hall of Fame, which she felt was the honor of a lifetime.

Outside of her professional life, Nancy was best known for her loyal and selfless friendship. She was the person people could call at any hour, the one who showed up, helped, and never asked for recognition. She gave her time, her energy, and her heart freely to those around her. Her generosity was limitless.

One of her greatest joys in life was the beach. If Nancy was out of town, you could bet she was somewhere enjoying sand, sun, palm trees, and good people watching. The beach was her place of rest and happiness. Fortunately, she found a kindred spirit in her best friend, Pam, and together they were always wrapping up one adventure while planning the next.

Nancy was also a devoted aunt who took great pride and interest in her nieces and nephews. She celebrated their accomplishments, supported them through challenges, and loved to spend time with them whether it was Disney, a soccer or baseball game, golf match, or Christmas.

Nancy will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, her service, and the countless lives she influenced for the better. Her legacy lives on in the students she taught, the community she served, the friends she supported, and the family she loved beyond measure. Nancy was predeceased by her father, Albert L.W. "Bill" Hyder, her mother, Nellie Jeanette (Campbell) Hyder, and her brother LTC (Ret.) William R. Hyder.

She is survived by her lifelong friend, Pam Hardie; nieces, Whitney Hyder Lowe and Sherry Hyder Hales; grand-nephews, Braxton Lowe (Taylor), Robert Hales, Conor Lowe (Jessie); grand-niece, Carson Hales, sister-in-law, Sharon Hyder; cousins, Tony Dutton (Louise), Dennis Ayers, and Teddy Tollett.

In the words of one friend who remembered Nancy, "If grace, compassion, kindness, selflessness, friendship, stewardship, wisdom and honesty had a face ..."

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Service will be held at Bilbrey Funeral Home on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 3 p.m. with burial to follow at Hyder Cemetery. Family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m., prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the United Fund Scholarship in Nancy's honor.