Nancy "Nan" Cahaly Braswell

Nancy Cahaly Braswell (Nan), 62, of James Island, South Carolina, passed away on February 4, 2026, surrounded by love.

Born August 25, 1963, in Greenville, South Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Helen (Young) Cahaly and Edward C. Cahaly. Nancy attended Greenville High School and later Winthrop University.

Nan lived with an energetic, fiery spirit that brightened every room. Expressive, passionate, and deeply creative, she carried a lifelong love of ballet. Music was central to her life—she wrote songs, played guitar and piano, and shared a beautiful singing voice that lingered long after the final note. She also had a love for cats and plants.

She found joy in nurturing others, especially through food, lovingly preparing Syrian dishes and her famous cheesecake from treasured family recipes, generously sharing them with friends and loved ones. Some of her happiest moments were spent watching sunsets over the marsh from her back porch—quiet, glowing times that reflected her reflective and soulful nature.

Nan is survived by her sister, Margaret Lee Ballinger of Greenville, SC. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Elwyn Cahaly, and her sister Cathy Grainger.

Nan will be remembered for her creativity, warmth, fierce love, and the beauty she brought into everyday life. 

A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. 

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted online at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, James Island, 347 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412, 843-614-8494.