Nancy L. Smiley

Nancy L. Smiley, 69, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2024 at Ernestine M. Raclin House in Mishawaka. Born on November 22, 1954 in Ft. Campbell, KY, Nancy was the daughter of Jimmy and Lelia (Henry) Smiley.

A proud graduate of St. Joseph High School in St. Joseph, MI, Nancy graduated with the Class of 1973. During her senior year, the high school band had the opportunity to travel and play at a musical festival in Austria. After high school, Nancy worked as a manager for McDonalds for approximately 10 years. Nancy also spent several years working at Kaleidoscope Children’s Center and Sprint. She then went on to work as a receptionist at Miller’s Merry Manor. When her health no longer allowed her to work, Nancy would continue to volunteer at the nursing home and assisted living facilities because she enjoyed spending time with the residents. She also helped senior citizens with their taxes at the Marshall County Council on Aging.

Through the years, Nancy was a longtime member of the House of Prayer in Plymouth. More recently, Nancy was also attended the 1st United Methodist Church.

Among the things that Nancy enjoyed, she was most notably an accomplished Clarinet Player. She spent many hours playing with the Marshall County Church Orchestra. She also enjoyed crocheting and getting together with her friends to play card games like Dominos, Euchre, and Skip-Bo. She was a competitive player, and her outgoing personality shone through in these moments. Nancy was social at heart and was a true friend to all.

She will be remembered by her kindness and distinguished personality. She was someone who knew how to get things done and was not afraid to be honest with what she was thinking. Her legacy of love and compassion for others will be a source of strength for those who knew her. 

Nancy is survived by her father, Jimmy Smiley and step-mother, Charlotte Smiley; siblings, Jim (Sheila) Smiley, Connie (George) Bradford, and William Smiley; along with four nieces and nephews, and seven great-nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Lelia.

Nancy will be laid to rest at 2PM on Friday, November 22, 2024 at the Rochester IOOF Cemetery, 620 W. 3rd Street, Rochester, IN 46975.

In honor of Nancy, memorial contributions can be directed to the Marshall County Church Orchestra. Please make checks payable to Judy Harness, 307 Marigold Ct, Plymouth, IN 46563.