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Nancy Leonard Obituary
Nancy Nitchman Leonard
Cherished wife, mother, grandmother and friend, died July 17, 2012, at the age of 74. Born in Cincinnati on Halloween 1937, but a resident of Indianapolis since the age of 2, she was a graduate of Howe High School and Butler University. Her remarkable and varied career included work in the Butler Alumni Office, work as a legal secretary, business teacher, church secretary, and director of Public Relations with the Indianapolis 500 Festival. From 1968-74, she hosted Kindergarten College, a children's morning TV show on WLWI Channel 13.
Nancy's legacy though, will be the result of her 22 years of work at the National Headquarters of Alpha Chi Omega, a women's fraternal organization with over 130 collegiate chapters and over 200 alumnae chapters. She began there in 1978 as Director of Publications, and after one year assumed the position of Executive Director, working with a sizable staff of professionals and volunteers. She was the first woman to participate in the Fraternity Executives Association, and the first woman to serve as its President. She received numerous awards for work in improving interfraternity cooperation.
Nancy was a member of Job's Daughters, Eastern Star, Butler University Chapter of Alpha Chi Omega, and Castleton United Methodist Church, where she worked with others to form what has become a vibrant preschool program. She was a talented pianist, playing for a wide variety of functions, but mostly just playing to the delight of grandkids, family and friends. A big sports fan, she loved golfing, and held Colts season tickets from the time they arrived in Indianapolis.
Nancy is survived by her husband of 51 years, Charles; sons, Scott (wife Lisa), and Jeff (wife Sara); and 4 grandchildren who know her as "Grancy", Jesse, Natalie, Emma and Will.
A Memorial/Celebration Service will be held at 5:00 p.m., followed by an informal get-together sharing memories of Nancy on Sunday, July 29, 2012, at Castleton United Methodist Church, 7160 Shadeland Station Way, Indianapolis, IN 46256.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Nancy Nitchman Leonard Education Fund at Alpha Chi Omega Foundation and/or the Castleton United Methodist Church Memorial Fund.
Arrangements are entrusted to Shirley Brothers Fishers- Castleton Chapel . http://www.shirleybrothers.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Nancy Leonard
Cheryl Richardson
July 26, 2012
I was fortunate to be a chapter consultant for AXO when Nancy was first ED. We've been friends for over 35 years and she is one in a million. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I wish I could be with you for her service, and I will be with you in spirit. She was a remarkable, creative, caring, articulate, and loving woman. God has richly blessed me with her in my life. God bless you all and with peace.
July 26, 2012
Dear Chuck and Family, We were so sorry to hear about Nancy's passing. Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Byron and Beverly Biggs
Cindy Hollingsworth
July 26, 2012
Scott, Charles, and family. Please know that you are in our family's -- Melvin & Ruby Clodfelter, and Cindy Hollingsworth -- thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Remember always, God says that Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Praying for your comfort and peace.
Lynne Strasser
July 26, 2012
Nancy was one of my favorite people. She was an excellent role model. I will miss her smiling face at Alpha Chi Omega events. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tim Eaton
July 25, 2012
Leonard family, my thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Watching kindergarten college as a young lad and knowing she lived down the street was the greatest, she influenced many lives including mine.
July 25, 2012
You and your family have our deepest sympathy at this time. Nancy will be remembered in our prayers.
Mike and Minda Booth
July 25, 2012
Dear Chuck and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. Nancy was a great person and will be remembered by many. Sincerely, Phyllis (Seppala) Herzberg
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