Nancy Kay Justis, aged 76, was born on August 16th, 1947, in New Castle, Indiana. She peacefully passed away on April 10th, 2024, in Naperville, Illinois. She described herself as an army brat moving from base to base but eventually settling in Champaign, Illinois, where she grew up and went to high school. Downers Grove, Illinois, became her home and cherished community where she and her loving husband Joel worked, cared for pets, and raised their family for 40 years. Nancy retired with Joel to Oswego, Illinois, where she spent 13 years building more friendships, celebrating family events, and cuddling with her beloved cat, Dodge.

Nancy is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Joel, who married on June 15th, 1968. Her legacy extends to her children: Charles (Judith) Justis, Dana (David) Bukala, and William Justis. The light of her life was her beloved grandchildren: Jackson and Maxwell Bukala, and Andrew and Hayden Justis. She leaves behind extended family: Neal (Jan) Justis and family, Greg (Janet) Justis and family, Nephew, Robert Kelley, and the Hamilton and Winders families of Indiana. Nancy's heart overflowed with love for all of her family.

Nancy's competitive spirit was etched in her DNA: 50% British Isles (Ireland), 40% Scandinavian (likely with Viking roots), and 10% Bulldog. She had an enthusiastic passion for competition which fueled her love of games and sports. Nancy first crossed paths with Joel at Eastern Illinois University while playing coed softball. In 1974, she coached the Downers Grove Doll's Softball Team to a state championship and the next day had her daughter, Dana. She was her family's biggest cheerleader, scorekeeper, and team mom for whatever sport they participated in and was so proud of their accomplishments. She enjoyed playing volleyball, bowling, golf, playing games, and watching her favorite Chicago teams, especially the Cubs.

Nancy was adventurous and loved to travel. She embraced camping for years and made it to 47 U.S. states. She traveled with her family to Disney World, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Hawaii, Niagara Falls, Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Badlands, and countless more. Nancy, Joel, and often with their amazing friends sailed the waters of Greece, cruised the Caribbean and Alaska, adventured through Europe, and explored the landscapes and pubs of Ireland three times. Spring training in Arizona became a staple for golf, having a drink at the Rusty Spur, and watching her Cubbies play.

Nancy's energy was magnetic, making connections and friendships wherever she'd go. She loved and cherished you all. The Davis Family was a second family to Nancy and her dearest friends: Sue Davis, Pam Burkle, Veretta Slad, and Joan Georgas were always so supportive, sharing years of laughter, tears, and tears from laughter.

Preceding her in death were her parents, John and Geneva Eileen Kelley, both World War II Veterans, and her brother Michael. Nancy's absence leaves an immense void in our hearts—a testament to the force of nature she embodied.

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held on Friday, August 16th, 2024, 6:00 p.m. at the Oswego Kickers Club, located at 1015 Harvey Road in Oswego, Illinois 60543. Let us gather to honor her memory, share stories, and toast a Guinness to Nancy. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society or share a meal with your family, play a game, and enjoy the time you have together.