Fannie Levy

Fannie Louise Levy — a beloved mother, Nana, singer, and businesswoman — passed away peacefully in her home on Friday, November 8, 2024. Born August 19, 1938, in Harold, KY to the late Edna and Theodore Younce, Fannie lived her life fully and fabulously. 

After graduating from Belfry High School in 1955 she spent most of her young adult life in Forest Hills, KY. It was there while working at the local hospital, she met her husband, Art, eventually becoming the office manager for his medical practice. Art and Fannie enjoyed travel, visiting destinations worldwide. Art worked at a hospital in New Orleans for years, where they made the most of many a Mardi Gras celebration.

Always looking for adventure, Fannie and her family moved to Hilton Head Island, SC in 1980 where she quickly became an active member of the local community. Fannie co-founded Hilton Head Security Systems, Inc. in 1981 where she served as Chief Financial Officer. Her shining smile and wise advice will be greatly missed by her office family. 

A diva through and through, Fannie was lucky enough to pursue her passion for singing. Her beautiful mezzo-soprano voice could be heard ringing out across the island as a member of The First Presbyterian Church choir, soloist with numerous local vocal performing groups, and adding the high harmonies on “Happy Birthday” at a party. A highlight of her vocal career was a performance of Verdi’s Requiem with the Hilton Head Orchestra in 1995. Fannie was called in when another soloist became ill. She learned the part in a day and performed the mezzo-soprano solos to rave reviews.

Fannie’s proudest role in life was Nana. Spend five minutes with her, and you would be regaled with stories and pictures of her grandchildren. Those who had the honor of knowing Fannie will miss her quick wit, vibrant personality, and fierce love of her family, friends, and Clint Eastwood. 

Fannie is preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Levy; two infant sons; her parents; one brother, John Younce; and three sisters, Thelma Lambert, Catherine Younce, and Judy Kennedy. She is survived by her sons, Keith (Jane) Jude and John Levy of Hilton Head Island, SC; her sisters, Patricia Scott, Nancy Volmer, and Jeanne (Bruce) Smith; stepchildren, Wayne (Avonda) Levy and Leslie Lewis; her grandchildren, Amelia Jude, Stewart Jude and Jeremiah Levy; and her many nieces, nephews, family and friends. 

A Celebration of Life will be conducted at First Presbyterian Church of Hilton Head Island on Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 pm. The service will be livestreamed at fpchhi.org/memorial-services and on the First Presbyterian Church Hilton Head Island YouTube channel. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations will be gratefully received by the music ministry of First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Parkway, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.