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Nanci Stradley Obituary

Stradley Nanci Marie Melfi Stradley, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2014 after a courageous battle with cancer. Nanci was born in Columbus, Ohio to Dr. Rudy and Pat Melfi on January 15, 1965. She graduated from Bishop Watterson High School in Columbus, Ohio where she was not only a cheerleader but in just about every other organization the school offered. She went on to graduate from Ohio State University where she majored in Communications/ Sports Information. While working on her major, ESPN wanted Nanci to be in "front of the camera for her reports" but she preferred the journalism side of presenting the printed word. Nanci was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. A "blind date in February, 1992" brought her to Canton and quickly into the heart of her future husband, Robert D. Stradley. They were engaged in November of "92 and married April 30th, 1993. Their son Shane Patrick was born September 7, 2001 and now she felt her life complete. Nanci was a lover of life and brought joy to all she encountered. She was very active in their son's school activities, served as a room mother in all of Shane's grades and was president of the PTA at Lake Elementary. If you needed something done, everyone just said "call Nanci". She was very creative and had a "fun business" called Diva Beads by Nanci - making jewelry. She had the opportunity to take this "national" but preferred to shun the spotlight and stay local. Nanci is survived by her husband, Robert (Rob) Stradey; son, Shane Stradley; parents, Dr. Rudy and Pat Melfi of Columbus, Ohio; sister, Amy (Michael) Stahr of Huntingtown, Maryland and their children, Shelbie and Nicholas; brother, Mitch and (Debbie) Melfi of Cincinnati, Ohio and their children, Christopher (wife, Shel), nieces, Sophia and Isabella; Matthew (Meghan); Andrew, Alyson and Jonathon; sister-in-law Tona and niece Erica. Nanci was preceded in death by her brother Eric in October 2014. Also surviving are her in-laws, George and Sally Stradley; sister-in-law, Kim (Gary) Doepker; and brother-in-law, Jim (Brenda) Stradley and their children, Meredith, Grace and Grant. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Michaels Church, Canton, Ohio at 11 a.m. on Thursday, December 18. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Stark County Foundation /Uniontown YMCA Nanci Stradley Strong Kids Foundation, 400 Market Ave. N., Canton, Ohio 44702. Online condolences may be left at www.arnoldfuneralhome.com. ARNOLD-HARTVILLE, 330-877-9364.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Dec. 15 to Dec. 16, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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Amy Stahr

August 11, 2022

It´s been 7 years since you passed. It still feels like yesterday. I miss you more than you will ever know. You weren´t just my little sister. You were my absolute best friend. We did everything together his kids. I love telling stories to Shelbie and Nick about you. They miss you so much. You were there Nini. I know you are happy and shining down on all of us. You mom dad and Eric I miss every single day. You are the absolute best sister anyone could have asked for. I just want one more day. I love you Nanc

Bea McPherson

December 10, 2020

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Nanci was this special women who made everyone smile. She has the most beautiful smile and a great personality. I looked up to her as my second mom. She always cared for others. Her son, Shane, is like one of my brothers. My nick name for him is Shane Sha

Lily Goehring

May 6, 2017

Nanci was this special women who made everyone smile. She has the most beautiful smile and a great personality. I looked up to her as my second mom. She always cared for others. Her son, Shane, is like one of my brothers. My nick name for him is Shane Shane Square Pants. I still call him that. Rob is an amazing guy as well. He always makes me laugh. I miss Nanci SOOO much and it's hard without her. I went to her for everything. I hope she is up there with God and John Denver. I listen to John Denver's song, Leaving on a Jet Plane almost everyday. She is amazing and she is loved by all. I love and miss you Fancy Nanci!

Heather Stuhldreher Boyd

January 8, 2015

Rob & Shane,
You have been in our thoughts and prayers for quite some time now. Nanci was an angel that was truly loved by all! She will be missed forever, but never forgotten!! We hope you can find peace in the fact that she is no longer suffering.
Our Love & Prayers to you and your families!

Jerry Bennett and Family

January 5, 2015

Our condolences Rob. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

Jan Mitchell (formerly Malcolm)

December 21, 2014

Nanci was a wonderful volunteer that I got to know through Junior League and Angel Auction. I'm so sorry for your loss. Although I hadn't seen Nanci in years, I've always thought of her dedication, reliability and energy. May both families find comfort in Nanci's legacy of giving and generosity of spirit. May Heaven rejoice to receive such a wonderful and gracious new angel. My heartfelt condolences to Rob as well all her loved ones.

December 20, 2014

Rob Just sending a note along with our prayers for comfort and understanding from Ruth, Owen Sturgill and the girls Cindy, Kathy and Kelly. They are all of course married but you would not know their married names. Blessings to all of you!

Jeanette Ladenburger

December 19, 2014

Nancy was a special young lady who always had a smile on her face. When my late husband and myself would go to Hartville and visit with my niece Vivian and her family, we always looked forward to seeing Nancy, Rob and Shane. I have prayed for Nancy and her family during her illness. May she now rest in peace with the Good Lord in Heaven.

John and Ann Schuman

December 19, 2014

I knew Nanci in college and always think of her beautiful smile. She was always so happy and fun to be around. So sorry for your loss. She will be deeply missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Scott Parslow

December 19, 2014

Rob, so sorry to hear of your loss, God bless you and your family.

Jeff and Margie McDonald

December 19, 2014

We were so saddened to hear the news of Nanci's illness and then our hearts dropped when my friend told us she had passed. She touched so many lives and will be so missed. You and your son are in our prayers.

Stephen Malcolm

December 19, 2014

Rob, So sorry to hear this news. I wish you the very best at this moment and always in the future.

Laura DePasquale, Schumacher Homes

December 18, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

John Stanley

December 18, 2014

Rob,

It's been a long time! You're a fine young man. God bless you and your family!

Tim Horner

December 18, 2014

I grew up down the street from Nanci and spent much of my grade school and high school years with Nanci and her family and friends. Although I moved away and didn't stay in touch after college, my time around Nanci will always be among my most cherished memories. She was so kind, friendly and fun - she was the person that all of us wanted to be around.

I was so saddened to hear the news. Nanci and her family are and will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Renee DiSabato

December 18, 2014

With our deepest sympathy and prayers. From the DiSabato family.

December 18, 2014

Rob and Shane,

Our prayers are with you on the passing of your wife and mother. We are the parents of Kurt Weber, whom you may remember as a caddie at Brookside. I am informing him now of your loss.
With sympathy, Nancy and Jim Weber.
Massillon

Steve Rudner

December 18, 2014

My deepest sympathies to Rob, Shane and the rest of your family and loved ones. Nanci's smile would light up the room.

Becky Slutz

December 18, 2014

Rob & Shane,
My deep sympathy in the loss of Nanci. Treasure your memories, she will live forever in your hearts. You are in my thoughts & prayers. (Becky from Schumacher Homes)
With sincere sympathy,

Colleen Cook

December 17, 2014

I have such fond memories of NCS softball with Nanci and I was beyond shocked to learn of her passing! She was way too young for this!!!!! Nanci was without question the best pitcher I ever played with, or against ,and she had a smile and laugh that could literally light up the sky! I learned such lessons about life on that team! Lessons about success, loss, disappointment, loyalty and friendship. While I haven't spoken to Nanci since HS my heart breaks for her family and friends. As A psychologist I work with grief on a regular basis. Through that work I have learned that the depth of the loss is a deep as the contributions the individual brought to the world and those who loved them. From that I know the depth of this loss is colossal,and my thoughts and prayers go out to Nanci's parents, her sister Amy, and her husband and children. No words can do justice!

December 17, 2014

Prayers to the Melfi/Stradley families. Nanci always had a huge smile on her face. Such great positive energy. May she rest in peace. Diane Hurley Zieg.

Sue Basta

December 17, 2014

So sorry to hear about Nanci. I knew her just enough to understand what an amazing lady she was. She lit up every room she entered and made us all laugh. Rob and Shane, you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Vlad and Jan Kapustin

December 17, 2014

We are deeply saddened and our thoughts and prayers are with the Stradley and Melfi families. The joy she brought to so many and the lives she touched have created everlasting memories. We wish you strength and comfort. Our sincerest sympathy, The Kapustin Family.

Jeff and Lori Zimmer

December 17, 2014

We are so sorry for your loss. Nanci was an amazing person. Praying that God will provide some peace and comfort to you and Shane.

Stacey Darrah

December 17, 2014

Rob and Shane,
You are both in my thoughts and prayers. Nanci was a wonderful woman with such a giving spirit. May you both be comforted in this time of loss.

Kim Kadlic

December 17, 2014

Stradley and Melfi Families,

I am so stunned and saddened to hear the news of Nanci's passing today. Nanci and I shared many wonderful memories together working in the Sports Information Department at Ohio State many years ago, and becoming close friends in the process. I was later honored to be in her wedding party. Though we lost touch over the years, I have thought of Nanci so often. Last week, after the big OSU win, I was driving home alone from Indianapolis on 70E and recalled a trip home from an OSU v. Indiana basketball game with Nanci in her fun sporty car. The roads had iced over and cars were spinning out everywhere. We had spun out and we were picked up by at State Highway Patrolman at about 1 a.m., who took us to a truckstop. We spent HOURS at the truckstop and thanks to Nanci's infectious personality, made friends with everyone in there, from ALL walks of life. We laughed so hard our stomachs ached! It is a night I will never forget. I drove by that truckstop last Sunday and literally laughed out load thinking about that night. I will forever smile thinking of her whenever I drive by there.

Much love to your families. The world lost a very bright light.

Cheryl Colby-Mourning

December 17, 2014

May God Hold you, Bless you and Keep you forever Nanci and may God provide your family with comfort, love and peace. Amen

Debbi Pemberton

December 17, 2014

My prayers go out for the Melfi/Stradley families during this time of loss. Pat always told us so many stories about all her kids. Such a loving family. God bless you all.

Joe Cravens

December 17, 2014

Thoughts and prayers from our family to yours.

The Bumbaugh's

December 17, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Stradley family during this difficult time.

Steve Root

December 17, 2014

Dear Rob, George & Sally and all the family,

I am so sorry to learn of Nanci's passing.May she now be at peace and free from pain. May the many happy memories help get you through this difficult time.

Bob & Karen Hadley-Trotter

December 17, 2014

So sorry for your loss. May God be with you all.

Errole Rembert

December 17, 2014

I will always have fond memories of Nancy and her entire family. In my beginning days as a coach the Melfi family played a big part in my success then and now. I know Nanci left her footprints on many lives and we are all better because of it. My prayers are with you.
Coach Rembert

December 17, 2014

Our deepest sympathies.

Nicole & Larry Lanham

Heidi Stuhldreher Vojtech

December 17, 2014

My heart goes out to the Stradley and Melfi families. Nanci was such a beautiful person, always smiling! May those memories bring you comfort and peace in the difficult times to come. So sorry for your loss.

Howard and Jo Ellen McGuirk

December 17, 2014

Rob, Shane and family,
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Nanci's death. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. Nanci touched many and the warmth of her love will linger forever.

December 17, 2014

Thoughts and prayers to the Stradley family.Nanci was a very sweet person.

Pamela Levengood

December 17, 2014

Our hearts go out to the Melfi and Stradley families. Your loss is so great, words are inadequate. Our love to all of you, Nanci was a delight and her smile was one in a million. God, please bless these families. Pam and John Levengood

Niki Bavelis

December 16, 2014

Dearest Melfi and Stradley family...I am so sorry for your loss. I worked with Nanci at Pella Company and was also a sorority sister at KKG. I have not seen Nanci in years, but always heard through the grapevine how she was doing. I am in complete shock and cannot begin to tell you all how sorry I am for your loss. Nanci was such a doll and just as many others have mentioned in the guest book, her smile and energy always lit up the room. I am sure that there is a special place saved for her up there. May He give you all strength to carry on.

Lisa Oakland

December 16, 2014

Her smile laughter and grace will never be forgotten. So sorry.

Victoria Schmitt

December 16, 2014

Dr. and Mrs. Melfi, Rob, and Shane, I remember Nanci's house on Stinson and her exuberance for life - from sports to friends to school. Though I have not seen her since high school, I have thought of her often and am happy she experienced in life being part of an extended and loving family. My heart is with Nanci and all of you.

Barbara Tharp- Morris

December 16, 2014

I am so sorry to hear about Nanci passing, I went to Marburn Elementary with Nanci and we spent many years there together. My Mom made a memory book recently and she is in many of my photos. My prayers are with the family

Alisa Advani

December 16, 2014

Rob and Shane,

I worked with Nanci at Redicon. I was a young college kid who idolized this beautiful, kind, polished woman who graciously had my back through my entire internship.

I loved Nanci. She taught me how to act at work, and she gave me the kind of advice a big sister would give a 20-year-old girl.

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Nanci's amazing presence will no doubt be felt from the brightest star she lights. Her charm, smile, wit, intellect, kindness and beauty (in and out) inspired us all to be better people.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I'll watch the sky for the most brilliant spot, and I'll say hello to a treasured friend.

Nanci will be with you - all around you - in everything -always.

Lisa (Curran) Rogers

December 16, 2014

So many fun memories as I was welcomed into the Melfi home during high school and college. Nanci's smile will continue in our hearts and minds. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

Bill & Judie Criss

December 16, 2014

Thoughts and prayers for you and your whole family.

Marsi Elosh

December 16, 2014

We were once 'thick as thieves'. So many happy memories I will always cherish.

14 mins · Like

December 16, 2014

Rob, Although I haven't seen you since high school and I didn't know your wife, she sounds like an amazing person. I, too, lost my spouse to cancer in August 2013. I know what pain you have and are about to endure, and would be glad to visit with you should you feel the need. God bless you and your family during this most difficult of times

CINDY PAUL ORTIZ

December 16, 2014

Growing up in the KNOlls , I would pass by the MELFI house walking to school, Nanci was always so kind and said HELLO, her smile lit up a room and so beautiful, her vibrant spirit and kindness will ALWAYS be remembered,
May you all hold Nanci close in your hearts,she will FOR ALWAYS be watching over you, the PAULS send you all COMFORT and PRAYERS

Theresa Prince

December 16, 2014

Mr.Stradley and Shane,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Nanci. She was a fabulous room mom and PTO president at Lake Elementary. She was such a giving person that radiated joy, fun and laughter wherever she went. She will be truly missed, but always remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Theresa Prince
Lake Elementary School

Bea McPherson

December 16, 2014

You are in my thoughts and prayers.....will never forget her winning smile and affection....

December 16, 2014

Thoughts and prayers for the whole Melfi family. I met Nanci when we were only 14 years old and she always had a special place in my heart. Peace. Pete Vogel

Jessica McFee

December 16, 2014

My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Although I only got to know Nanci breifly, it was always a joy to see her face. She was always full of positive energy. I know she will be missed by many.

December 16, 2014

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Mindy and Tom Farwick

December 16, 2014

Rob, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Tiffany Rockstroh (Gill)

Burt, Paula, Emily and Delaney Phillips

December 16, 2014

Rob, Shane and Family, we will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief -

December 16, 2014

You have our deepest sympathy for your loss. God bless you and your family. Bob and Mary Frase and Family.

Tina Garcia-Bible

December 16, 2014

Rob, Sane and family
Her smile, her love of life...that's what I will remember. My heartfelt sympathy to all of you.

December 16, 2014

My heart goes out to the Melfi and Stradley families. Nanci was a bright light, and a great mother, sister, daughter and friend. I am so sorry.

Deitz Family

December 16, 2014

Our deepest sympathies go out to the Stradley family. May God comfort you during this difficult time. We will keep all of your family in our prayers.

Kay Scott

December 16, 2014

Rob, I'm so sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathy and prayers for you and your family.

Sheldon Lewis

December 16, 2014

Rob,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May GOD give you comfort and peace, and may the memories that you shared together fill your heart forever.

Paul Valachovic

December 16, 2014

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. From her obituary it sounds like she was a wonderful woman, who led a very full life. So much to celebrate. God bless.

December 16, 2014

Kim and I are so sorry for your loss Rob. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Theresa Mullen

December 16, 2014

Nanci was the kindest person. Such a bright light and genuine. Many thoughts and prayers for your family. We will use the rosary Communion bracelets she made with the 2nd grade St. Michael class to pray and think of her.

Rick and Sue Stradley

December 16, 2014

Rob, Shane and all, we are so sorry for this huge loss to our family. Our hearts are heavy with sadness for you.
Rick and Sue Stradley

Barb Walter

December 16, 2014

I only had the honor of knowing Nanci for a short time, but she made me feel as if I had known her forever. Nanci was a true shining light to all she met. Rob and Shane, her love will be with you forever. I will be here if you need to talk.

Nadine Villard

December 16, 2014

Rob, I am deeply saddened by Nanci's passing. I worked with her at Sky Bank, many years ago, and she was just a pleasure to work with as we set up that new office. She put the spark in our working days. There was never a time when she wouldn't help with any given task. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Nadine Villard

Monica Early

December 16, 2014

You can't extinguish a firecracker. Nanci's brightness and light will live on in the hearts of those she loved so deeply. Rest in peace, Sunshine.

Lynnette McBride

December 16, 2014

Rob and Shane, I am so sorry for your loss! Nanci was such a wonderful person and I always loved her upbeat, positive outlook. Such a loss to us, but what a gain to Heaven. God has special plans for her.

Kathy Bush

December 16, 2014

Rob, Shane, Pat and the rest of the family: sending my love and deepest sympathy. I will miss Nanci so much. She puts the sparkle in all of the crystal in the world. I can't think of her without thinking of things that sparkle and shine! You're always in my thoughts and prayers. I'm only a phone call away if there is anything that I can do to help. Much love,
Kathy

December 16, 2014

You will forever be in our hearts.

Pam DeSantis-Rounds

December 16, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss. I have fond memories of Nanci. She always had a smile on her face. May God wrap his loving arms around you all during this difficult time.

Dianne Cain

December 15, 2014

Rest in peace my dear friend. You will remain a shining light in the hearts of all who had the fortunate pleasure of calling you friend.

Maria Amamatides

December 15, 2014

May your memory be eternal sweet Nanci!! So very saddened to hear of her passing.... My deepest sympathy to her family and loved ones.

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