On September 16, 1932, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a remarkable life began. Born to Odell
Young Sr. and Lillie Maude Young, Loretta Young Sims Nash was raised in a close-knit family, where
faith, service, and love were the guiding principles. From her earliest years, she was immersed in
the warmth of family gatherings and the steadfast values instilled by her mother – a legacy that
shaped her throughout her life.
Loretta attended Mary H. Wright Elementary School and graduated from Carver High School, where
she cultivated resilience and determination. As a young girl, she became an active member of
Mount Moriah Baptist Church, attending Sunday services and engaging in weekly activities
alongside her beloved family.
Her journey through life was marked by love and unwavering perseverance. Loretta married Alonso
Sims, with whom she shared the joy of raising two daughters, Sandra and Gwendolyn. It was during
these years that she discovered her passion for sewing—a skill she inherited from her mother, a
gifted seamstress. Loretta’s artistry and dedication brought beauty to those around her, as she
lovingly crafted clothing for her daughters, herself, and her community.
A woman of bold ambition, Loretta pursued opportunities beyond societal expectations. In an era of segregation, she stepped fearlessly into the workforce, securing positions in Spartanburg’s five-and- dime stores, quickly rising from a salesclerk to a supervisory role. She instilled in her children the
value of diligence, reminding them to always strive for excellence. Later, she became one of the first
Black female Lab Supervisors and Technicians at Hoechst Celanese Company, where she dedicated
22 years before retiring.
Loretta’s pursuit of learning never ceased. After graduating from Carver High School, she attended
Cecil Business College and the Good Dressing and Tailing Institute, earning certifications in
specialized skills. She cultivated her talent into a thriving business, becoming one of the few Black
female entrepreneurs in sewing and alterations. Her craftsmanship was revered, and her kindness
ensured that no customer was ever turned away.
Life blessed her with a profound love when she married Capers Nash, the one who truly completed
her heart. Together, they built a blended family filled with laughter, love, and cherished moments.
Their devotion extended beyond their home, as they remained active in their church, giving back to
the community through fellowship and service. Loretta embraced leadership roles at Mt. Moriah
Baptist Church, serving as President of the Helping Hand Sympathy Club, a dedicated member of the
Senior Missionary Board, the September Birthday Club, and the Women’s Committee—always living
out her faith through action.
Though she has reunited with her beloved Nash, she leaves behind a legacy woven deeply into the
hearts of her family. She is survived by her two daughters, Sandra Patterson of Atlanta, GA (late Roy
Patterson) and Gwendolyn Faison (Michael) of Spartanburg, SC, granddaughter Shaundra Patterson
of Atlanta, GA, daughter-in-love Carolyn Littlejohn of Spartanburg, and grandson-in-love Rashard
Littlejohn (Latisha), of Lancaster, SC. She is also survived by one brother, Odell Young (Dolores) of
Atlanta, GA, one brother-in-law, George Ellis of Spartanburg and one sister-in-law, Barbara Cureton
Young of Greenville, SC. She is also preceded in death by four dear sisters, Johnsie Watson Mims,Betty Jean Young, Jennie Ruth Young, Brenda Ellison, and two brothers Raymond Young and Bennett (Bennie) Young.
She leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, extended church family, and friends, all of whom
count it a true blessing to have known her. Her memory will forever be cherished, as she touched
countless lives with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
May her legacy continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Spartanburg, SC. Burial will be in the Heritage Memorial Gardens, Roebuck, SC.