Nancy Decker

Nancy Decker NORFOLK - Nancy Jane Decker, 79, passed away Friday, April 9, 2010, at a local hospital. Born in Chicago, Ill., to the late Florence and Thomas Ryan, she was the youngest of six children. Nancy served in the U.S. Naval Air Corps as a young woman. She married the love of her life, Cecil Eugene Decker, on Sept. 8, 1951 and was devoted to the care and keeping of family, friends and a welcoming home full of rich fellowship and laughter. Nancy will be remembered for her brave, independent and unselfish character, her infectious love of books, learning and engaging conversation and as a gifted artist how she appreciated and created beauty in all that she touched. Sweet memories will linger forever as we cherish these gifts from our beautiful mother, grandmother and buddy. Nancy is survived by her three sons, Carl E. Decker of Norfolk, Thomas M. Decker of New York City, Edward W. Decker and his wife Kathryn of Perth, Australia; daughters, Nancy D. Stephenson and her husband Scott B. Stephenson of Durham, N.C., Michelle D. Boogades of Norfolk; granddaughters, Elise, Laurel, Elena and Sherri; sisters, Rosemary of Siloam Springs, Ark. and Dorothy of Decatur, Ark.; numerous nieces, nephews and loving friends. Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Cecil E. Decker and son-in-law, Nick J. Boogades. A memorial Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Norfolk at 1 p.m. Monday, April 19. Burial will be private. The family will welcome friends at her home following the ceremony. Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, Tidewater Drive Chapel, is in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com. Memorial donations may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 520 Graydon Ave., Norfolk, VA 23507.