Nancy Elizabeth Smith

Nancy Elizabeth Smith, 96, of New Carlisle, formerly of Galien, died peacefully, Friday, September 15, 2023.

Her life began March 21, 1927, in Galien, Michigan, one of three children born to Russell and Dorothy McLaren.  She married Duane Smith June 29, 1947 in Galien, Michigan.  After sixty-seven years of marriage, he preceded her in death February 26, 2015.    

Nancy was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.  She and her husband attended every sporting event and dance recital, for their kids and grandkids, that they could.  She was a 1945 graduate of Galien High School and attended Fort Wayne Bible College for one year.  Nancy and Duane were longtime members of Olive Branch Church.  They were Sunday School teachers, treasurer, usher, choir members, Ladies Aid member, and served or cooked for events.      

Nancy will be greatly missed by family and friends.  She is survived by one daughter, Suzanne (John) Martin of Galien; two sons, Alan (Treva) Smith of Salem, Virginia, Ronald (René) Smith of Bend, Oregon; three grandchildren, Erica (Jim) Furlong of Roanoke, Virginia, Alexander (Jenn Brunink) Martin of Grand Rapids, Leslie (Mike) Caliguri of Grand Rapids; two great grandchildren, Zoey, Simon; two brothers, Robert (Naomi) McLaren of Noblesville, Indiana, William (Lisa) McLaren of Macomb, Illinois; and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband; her daughter-in-law, Michele Smith.

Family and friends will gather to celebrate Nancy’s life Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Roy Chilson American Legion Post # 344, 402 North Main Street, Galien.

Nancy will be laid to rest with her beloved husband in Galien Township Cemetery.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Nancy be made to Galien River Church, 201 North Cleveland Avenue, Galien, Michigan 49113 or to Southern Care Hospice, 1626 East Day Road, Mishawaka, Indiana 46545.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner Family Funerals Pobocik Chapel, Three Oaks. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.

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