Nancy Lee Shipley, affectionately known as Nancy, Nana, or Nonnie, was born on April 12, 1946, in Charleston, South Carolina, and entered eternal rest on May 11, 2026, in Windham, Ohio, at the age of 80.

Nancy was a lifelong resident of the Village of Windham, where she lived a life marked by love, humility, sincerity, strength, and quiet devotion to others. She was a woman of faith who cared deeply for her family and friends. Those who knew her will remember her as loving, selfless, and kind — a woman who consistently put the needs of others before her own and who found joy in making life a little sweeter for everyone around her.

Nancy attended Windham Exempted Village Schools and later dedicated 30 years of service to Carlisle/Geauga Industries. She was deeply respected by her work family not only for her dedication and reliability, but also for her generous spirit. Nancy often prepared benefit dinners hosted by coworkers to help ease the burden of medical expenses for fellow employees, always offering her time and talent with a willing heart. Her compassion was not something she spoke about often — she simply lived it. She believed in helping where she could, giving what she had, and lifting others up whenever possible.

Many residents of Windham may also remember Nancy as their babysitter, and she spoke fondly of those children and their families throughout the years. Her care left lasting impressions, and her gentle presence was remembered by many. She had a gift for making people feel welcome, safe, and loved. Her kindness reached far beyond her own household, and she touched countless lives through the simple, caring way she lived each day.

Family was the center of Nancy’s life and she cherished them all. She was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Summers (Joe); her three granddaughters, YeVette Lommler (Adam), Cortney Neer (Jonathan), and Kaila Summers; seven great-grandchildren, Kierra (Justin), Kylee, Jemma, Cole, Kalynn, Abraham, and Noah; and her great-great-granddaughter, Willow — representing five generations of first-born women. She also leaves behind her sister-in-law, Sharon Smith and many beloved nieces and nephews, while holding Angela Smith especially dear to her heart.

Nancy often said that her greatest achievement was her daughter, a statement that reflected the depth of her love and pride. Her family was the joy of her heart, and she treasured every moment spent with them. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren with all her heart and fought hard to remain with her family long enough to see the birth of her great-great-granddaughter earlier this year and to celebrate her 80th birthday. Her legacy lives on in the love they carry, the memories they share, and the values she instilled through her example.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Harlan and Clara Ulrich Smith; her brother, Dan Smith; and her beloved dog, Ginger. Though their passing left an ache in her heart, she carried on with grace, strength, and faith. Now she is reunited with them in the presence of the Lord she loved and served.

Nancy loved to cook and bake from the time she was just ten years old, and throughout her life, she was happiest in the kitchen. There was truly little she could not prepare with skill and care. She will be fondly remembered for her delicious Sunday dinners, which brought family together not for any special occasion, but simply for the joy of being together. Family birthdays were also celebrated around her table, complete with a favorite meal and a homemade dessert chosen especially for the guest of honor.

Cutout cookies and no-bake cookies were especially her specialty, and she became known for the wonderful treats she shared so freely.  Nancy loved all holidays, but Christmas held a special place in her heart. It was a season she embraced with great joy, and others eagerly anticipated the plates of baked cookies she would lovingly prepare for them. She did not simply cook and bake- she used those gifts to bless others and make people happy.  Nancy was also known for faithfully sending birthday and Christmas cards. If there was an occasion, she made sure to acknowledge it with a thoughtful card. 

Nancy loved music of all kinds, and her favorite entertainer was Elvis Presley. She spoke often and fondly of her trip to Graceland, once telling her daughter, “You better wear your sunglasses when you visit because you will cry the whole way through the tour.” That love for Elvis became part of her family’s shared memories, and her great-grandchildren affectionately referred to Elvis as “Nana’s boyfriend,” bringing smiles and laughter to all who heard it. These treasured stories reflect the joy and warmth Nancy brought into the lives of those around her.

Her life reminds us of the truth found in Scripture: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:23). Nancy loved deeply and gave generously. She was a woman whose actions spoke louder than words and whose daily life reflected the goodness of God’s grace.

Nancy's favorite Scripture and prayer was Psalm 23, a passage that brought her comfort throughout her life:

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me."

As we remember Nancy, we give thanks for a life well lived and for the blessing of having known her. Her hands were always busy serving, her heart was always open, and her home and table were places of comfort and love. Though she has departed this earthly life, her memory remains a comfort to those who loved her, and her example will continue to guide them.

May she rest in the peace of Christ, and may her family find strength in the promise of eternal life until they meet again.

In accordance with Nancy's wishes, no calling hours or public services will be observed. Cremation has taken place, and a private memorial service will be held at a later date. The family welcomes condolences and the sharing of fond memories at www.borowskimemorialhome.com, and is grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this time.