Nancy L. Beebe

Nancy L. Simmons Beebe, 92, of Athens, passed peacefully into the arms of her Creator on Wednesday evening, November 19, 2025, at Kimes Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born April 13, 1933 in Kent, Ohio, she was the daughter of the late Donald R. Simmons and Mary Adeline Strayer, who first nurtured in her the gifts of faith, family, and song. Beside her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard L. Beebe, Jr.

A lifelong scholar and musician, Nancy graduated from Roosevelt High School in Kent before earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in vocal music from Kent State University and Ohio University. Soon after graduating, she sang for the NBC Opera in New York City. Her voice, rich and unmistakably her own, would continue to grace sanctuaries for decades as she served as a Canter for several churches.

Nancy later earned her Ph.D. in Theology from the University of Dayton. She went on to become a beloved Professor of Vocal Music at Ohio University, where she taught for more than 25 years. Generations of students remember her not simply for her technical mastery, but for the calm steadiness and quiet encouragement that allowed them to find their own voices.

She was a devoted member of Christ the King Catholic Church in Athens, where she served as choir director and shared her musical gifts with her parish family. She was also a dedicated member of the Carmelite Order of Ancient Observance, having professed her vocation on April 15, 1997. Nancy Beebe, OCDS, was a cherished member of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Community in Columbus, where her contemplative spirit and deep prayer life touched many.

Above all her accomplishments, Nancy’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her daughter, Sharon (Rick) Frame of Athens; her sons, Howard Beebe and David (Anna) Beebe, both of Athens; eight grandchildren: Arie, Ricky (Mariclare), Castle, Michael, Steve, Scott, Cody (Fran), and Jaime, seven great-grandchildren: Emerson, Rory, Tripp, Biron, Lana, Khloe, and Liam; and her brother, Richard (Judy) Simmons of Berkeley, California. The family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to their dear friend, Teresa, whose faithful companionship and unwavering support over the years brought Nancy comfort, joy, and peace.

Nancy will be remembered for her dedication to the Catholic faith, her gentle and grounded presence, her calm spirit, and her ability to take charge with grace whenever something needed to be done. She found her greatest happiness in the presence of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward a piece of her legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the United Seniors of Athens County for the compassionate support they provided to Nancy and her family. Donations can be mailed to 701 East State Street suite 101, Athens, OH 45701.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, Stewart and Mill Streets, Athens, with Msgr. Donald Horak as Celebrant. Burial will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Friends may call beginning at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the church. Arrangements are in the care of Jagers & Sons Funeral Home. Memories, notes of

condolence, and signatures for the online register may be shared at www.jagersfuneralhome.com.

Prayer to St. Cecilia, Patron Saint of Music 

O glorious St. Cecilia, 

virgin and martyr, 

you sang in your heart to the Lord 

as you offered your life in faith and devotion. 

Through your intercession, 

may Nancy now join the heavenly choir, 

lifting her voice in eternal praise. 

Grant consolation to those who mourn her, 

and let the music she shared on earth 

echo forever in our hearts. 

St. Cecilia, pray for her, and pray for us. Amen.