Nancy Thompson Barnwell Charleston - Nancy Thompson Barnwell died on October 11, 2021. Arrangements are being made by the J. Henry Stuhr Inc. Downtown Chapel, and the family will have a private memorial service. Mrs. Barnwell was born January 12, 1948 in Charleston, South Carolina, the daughter of the late Russell Emery Thompson and Laurie West Thompson. She was a graduate of Ashley Hall and the University of South Carolina, where she also completed advanced degrees. Mrs. Barnwell taught mathematics beginning at Ashley Hall, then at the Baptist College (Charleston Southern University), and finally at Berkeley High School, before choosing to pursue a Master's Degree in Library Science. She retired as the school librarian at Marrington Schools. A friend to nearly everyone she met, she was passionate about serving her community and was elected to the District 20 Constituent School Board for several terms; served on the boards at Communities In Schools and Charleston Friends of the Library, among others; and provided support in various ways to the Spoleto Festival USA, most recently as a house manager. She was a devoted recreational athlete, making numerous lasting connections through her participation in tennis, dance, and swimming up until shortly before she passed away. Mrs. Barnwell is survived by her husband, Nathaniel Elliott Barnwell of Charleston, SC; her son, John Russell Barnwell (Sarah VanWye); two grandsons: John "Jack" Benjamin Barnwell and George Russell Barnwell of Takoma Park, MD; and her brother, Donald West Thompson of Mt. Pleasant, SC. She was predeceased by her son, Thompson Parker Barnwell. Memorials may be sent to the Halsey Gallery, 161 Calhoun St., Charleston, SC 29424, the Spoleto Festival USA, 14 George St,, Charleston, SC 29401, or to a charity of one's choice. Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston