Nancy Shafer

(From Midland Cremation Society)

In Loving Memory of Nancy Jean (Beard) Shafer

Born on May 1, 1970 in Iowa, Nancy entered this world as the second child to Joy and John Fry. Raised alongside her brother Mathew and sister Christine in Phoenix, Arizona, Nancy's journey was marked by resilience and a profound dedication to others. She passed away May 3, 2024.

Despite the challenges of being a teenage mother, Nancy persevered, earning her GED and ultimately achieving three college degrees. Her proudest accomplishments, however, were not academic but familial. She cherished her daughter Heather Nading and reveled in the role of grandmother to Paige and Kaitlyn Patton, affectionately known as "Yaya" to them.

Nancy's professional life was characterized by her unwavering commitment to care. For over a decade, she served as an ICU nurse at Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, where her compassion and skill touched countless lives. But her heart extended beyond hospital walls; she was a devoted Christian who found fulfillment in volunteering at local shelters and providing medical aid to women and children in Africa.

In her love story with Kevin Beard, Nancy found her soulmate, though his passing preceded hers. Their bond was a testament to enduring love and companionship.

Nancy's kindness, passion, and dedication resonated deeply with all who knew her. Whether she was called granddaughter, daughter, sister, mother, Yaya, Aunt Nanny, Nanny Bug, friend, or sister in Christ, her impact was profound and lasting.

As Nancy embarks on her journey to eternity, she leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering faith. While her physical presence may be gone, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to us all; for now, she dances in heaven with her beloved Kevin, to the tune of "Faithfully" by Journey.