Nancy Joan Smith

Nancy Joan (Lents) Smith, 82, passed away on Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2022 at IU West Hospital Avon.

Nancy was born in Indianapolis on Sept. 24, 1939, the daughter of John and Alberta Lents.

She was a graduate of St. John High School in Loogootee.

Nancy was known for her angelic voice which she reverently displayed in her devotion to Christ. Her voice and musical talents brought feelings of compassion and joy to all that knew her. She was a talented guitarist, upright bassist and pianist; inspired many of her grandchildren to become artful musicians and share their passion for music with others. Many remember her graceful voice being sung at her daughter’s weddings, family events and church choirs.

She also had a talent for knitting. She enjoyed creating doll clothes for granddaughters and great-granddaughters, intricate hats, delicate scarves and comforting blankets for family, friends and those in need.

After the passing of her beloved, Tom, of 60 years, Nancy drew close in the comfort of our Heavenly Mother. She continued her devotion to Mary by praying her rosary daily, offering up her suffering for the sake of others.

Her family left behind, are heartbroken without her here on earth, but we are also comforted when we think of her now free from suffering, basking in the light of The Father, wrapped up in the love of Our Mother, and walking hand in hand with her true love, Tom, once again.

Survivors include her five children, Dirk Smith, Greencastle, Lisa Ray (Chris) Plainfield, Susan Wesley (Shane) Silex, Mo., Alison Bauer (Joe), Brownsburg, and Lora Deaton (Mark) Poland; a brother, Jackie Lents, Loogootee; a sister, Judy Bain (Randy) Vista, Calif.; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Howard Smith, Clarksville; sister-in-law Elaine Carrico, Loogootee, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a sister, Janet Denson.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 31 at St. Susanna Catholic Church in Plainfield with Rev. Robert T. Hausladen officiating. Friends may gather at the church at 10 a.m.; a Divine Mercy Chaplet will take place in the church at 10:30 a.m. prior to time of service.

A private burial service will take place at Forest Hill Cemetery at a later time.