Nancy Elaine Brown

Nancy Elaine Brown obituary, Quincy, IL

Nancy Elaine Brown

Nancy Brown Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Nancy Elaine Brown, 73, of Quincy, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025, at her home in Quincy, IL.
Nancy was born January 25, 1952, in Alton, IL to John and Blondora (Hodge) Smith.
Survivors include her four sons, Darrell Cannady, Robert Cannady (Julie Waterkotte), Adam Cannady, and Mike Cannady and his daughter, Alexus Cannady, all of Quincy; two sisters, Chris Wesley and Alice Smith; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; sisters Carolyn Bearn and Marilyn Sutter; and one sister in infancy, Catherine Elaine.
She graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1960 and soon after embarked on a career that would see her dedicate many years to caring for others as a Certified Nursing Assistant. Nancy's nurturing nature extended beyond her professional life as she also managed the front desk at her son's business, the Tranny Clinic on 8th St., where her welcoming smile became a fixture.
Nancy's life was a tapestry of interests and passions. She had a profound love for animals, caring for her cats and birds with tenderness and devotion. Crime TV shows captivated her attention, providing endless hours of intrigue and entertainment. Her musical tastes were a reflection of her era, with the iconic sounds of Elvis and The Beatles often providing the soundtrack to her days.
A collector at heart, Nancy delighted in the simple joy of finding new trinkets to add to her diverse array of flamingos, wind chimes, and shot glasses. Her home was a testament to her eclectic and endearing tastes, each item a story, a memory, a piece of her heart. Among her favorite destinations, Rifle Falls, CO, held a special place, its serene beauty offering a respite and adventure that spoke to her soul.
Above all, Nancy's world revolved around her family. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and the joy of living each day to the fullest. Her memory will be treasured in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to have been touched by her kindness and spirited personality.
Cremation is under the direction of O'Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home. There will be no formal services at this time.
To send flowers to the family of Nancy, please visit our floral store.

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

How to support Nancy's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Nancy Brown's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Nancy Brown's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?