Nancy Hodge Shy

Nancy Shy, 55, of Liberty, Mo., died January 7, 2009. A memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at Avondale United Methodist Church on Saturday, January 10, at 10:30 a.m. Visitation will be held in Wesley Hall immediately following the service. Nancy was born on May 5, 1953, to Dr. Robert and Anna Mae Hodge. Her childhood home in Kansas City North was the same home her grandparents had raised their family in. She was a graduate of North Kansas City High School and attended Southern Methodist University, where she received her degree in business administration with a minor in art history. On June 1, 1985, she married Greg Shy and moved to the country, where they raised their son Robert and more recently enjoyed family time with their grandchildren. Their home was always welcome to friends, family and an array of stray animals. Professionally, Nancy worked in retail and pharmaceutical sales before entering the nonprofit sector, where she worked at Synergy Services and Northland Health Care Access. Her organizational skills and caring spirit helped thousands of persons over the years find safe shelter, healthcare and clothes and learn life skills. She was an active member of Avondale United Methodist Church, where she sang in the choir, taught Sunday School and served on numerous committees. She was also a member of the PEO sisterhood, Chapter KF and actively served in a variety of other service organizations. Nancy always put others first, living every day to its fullest. She loved to laugh and always had a good story to tell. Nancy filled her busy days with church, family and friends, doing a good deed, encouraging youth and cooking. She was a living witness to her faith in the joy she brought to others. Her response to cancer exemplified her life spirit to tackle challenges with undaunted resolve, grace and humor. Nancy is survived by her husband Greg; son Robert (Jennifer) and grandchildren Chase, Jordan, Tyler and Donovan; parents, Dr. Robert H. and Anna Mae Hodge, and brothers Dr. Robert Hodge (Sandy) of Columbia, Mo., and Dr. Richard (Marti) Hodge of Kansas City. Nancy's zest for life and love for those around her will be deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Avondale United Methodist Church, 3101 N.E. Winn Road, Avondale MO 64116.