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Nancy L. O'Brien, age 73, of Hannibal, MO passed away at 5:41 pm Thursday, August 14, 2025, at Hannibal Regional Hospital.
A Memorial service will be held 11:00 am Wednesday, August 20, 2025 at Waters Funeral Home. Bro. Kenny Haddock will officiate. Burial will be in the Evergreen Memorial Gardens in Vandalia, MO.
Visitation celebrating Nancy's life will be held at 10:00 am until 11:00 am Wednesday at the Waters Funeral Home.
Nancy was born on November 13, 1951, in Laddonia, MO the daughter of Oscar Paul and Pauline Louise (Kelsey) Burkhart.
She was united in marriage to Glenn Allen O'Brien. He preceded her in death on May 2, 2001.
Survivors include three sons, Jordan O'Brien (Tiffany) of Hannibal, MO, Lance O'Brien of Hannibal, MO and Chad O'Brien (Jeanette) of Wentzville, MO; daughter, Holly Lowary (Alan) of VA; two brothers, Ronnie Burkhart (Sharon) and Richard Burkhart and twelve grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.
Nancy graduated from North Shelby High School.
Professionally Nancy worked as an in-home health aid.
Nancy found delight in life’s simple pleasures. She could often be found with a word search puzzle in hand, a fresh cup of coffee nearby, and a smile that welcomed conversation. Her Facebook page was a lively hub of recipes, shared memories, and heartfelt connections-a reflection of her love for staying close to those she cared about.
Cheesecake was her sweet indulgence, and she never missed a chance to enjoy it with friends or family. Whether she was getting her nails painted or swapping stories over coffee, Nancy radiated warmth and kindness. Her greatest joy came from spending time with loved ones-her family and friends were the heart of her world.
Nancy’s presence was a gift. She brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of belonging to every room she entered. Her memory will live on in the stories we share, the recipes we pass down, and the quiet moments we remember her by.
She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Memorial contributions may be made to Waters Funeral Home to assist the family with funeral expenses.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
500 S Main St P. O. Box 84, Vandalia, MO 63382
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
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