Nancy S. Allen

Nancy S. Allen Age 84, of Joliet passed away on July 23, 2023 with her children at her side. Until her recent hospitalization, Nancy was independent and active in church and volunteer organizations. She enjoyed a rich and caring church, volunteer, and neighborhood community. Nancy was very proud of her children and grandchildren and supported all her family in their various life endeavors. Nancy is survived by her children, Beth Ann (Mark) Thelo of Channahon and Paul (Megan) Allen of Ithaca, NY; grandchildren, Bennett and Grace Thelo and feline companion Princess. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband Reverend James Allen, brother Don Steberl and parents, John and Nellie Steberl. Born August 9, 1938 in Dayton, Ohio, Nancy married Jim on May 30, 1959. She graduated from Northern Illinois University in 1974 with a BS and teaching certification. Nancy spent her career teaching elementary and special education in Savanna and Joliet, Illinois. In Joliet, she taught at Parks, Kelly and Keith schools, retiring in 1999. She received the Anita Peterson Exceptional Educator Award in 1988 from the Joliet Public Schools. The church was central in Nancy's life. She was the organist in her Dayton church when she met Jim, who was the youth pastor. When they married, she graciously took up the pastor's wife role and supported Jim in the church and community throughout his lifetime. Additionally, over the years she embraced many church roles including Sunday school teacher, choir member, and children's choir director. Nancy was an active member of the Channahon United Methodist Church and a member of the former Ottawa Street United Methodist Church in Joliet. She was part of women's circles from both Channahon and Ottawa Street. Nancy was past president of the Silver Cross Hospital Advisory Board and dedicated over 3,500 hours to the Encore Shop since 2001. She also volunteered with the Joliet Area Community Hospice for many years. Nancy treasured the friendships she made in her volunteer work and with the special ladies in her Joliet neighborhood. Visitation will be held at Channahon Untied Methodist Church, 24751 W. Eames, on Sunday, July 30, 2023 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. On Monday, July 31, 2023 Nancy will be lying in state from 10:00 AM until Funeral Service begins at 11:00 AM also at Channahon United Methodist Church. Interment Elmhurst Cemetery, Joliet. In lieu of flowers preferred memorials may be directed to Lightways Hospice (formerly known as Joliet Area Community Hospice) For information please phone 815. 467-1234 or visit www.themaplefuneralhome.com

Nancy S. Allen

August 9, 1938 - July 23, 2023