Nancy Loveless

Nancy Elmore Loveless, beloved daughter, mother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away surrounded by loved ones and cherished memories on Friday, December 6, 2024. Born on March 10, 1956, in Abilene, Texas, to Oran Jr. and Hattie Stinchcomb Elmore, Nancy lived a vibrant life filled with family, adventure, and accomplishment. 

Nancy's early years were spent in Lubbock, Texas before her family returned to Abilene, Texas. She attended Haynes Elementary, Evans Junior High, and Monterey High School, graduating in 1974. Her education journey continued at Texas Tech University and Abilene Christian University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree, and McMurry University, where she earned teaching credits. 

Nancy's childhood was enriched by her love of horses and the many ribbons she won in English, Western, and Costume classes. As a teenager, she claimed Lubbock County's overall riding championship, showcasing her lifelong passion for animals and sportsmanship. A proud member of the Blue Birds, Campfire Girls, and her school's choir, Nancy's leadership shone brightly as president of Monterey High School's Girls' Choir. She even quarterbacked her junior year Powder Puff Football team to victory in the school's only competition of its kind. 

Her college years at ACU included accolades as part of the Livestock Judging Team and membership in the Block & Bridle Club. She carried her competitive spirit into adulthood, excelling in tennis, horseback riding, and bowling. Nancy and her USTA women's tennis team achieved third place in state competition and claimed multiple Abilene city championships. 

Nancy lived a life of adventure and exploration, pursuing snow and water skiing, hiking, dancing, softball, hunting, and trail riding. Whether teaching horseback riding to young riders or subbing in Abilene ISD classrooms for over 20 years, she devoted herself to uplifting others. She enjoyed traveling, driving her 4x4 Ford F250, and when not on the move, loved being at home on her ranch with her dogs. Her cherished 1968 SS Camaro-a gift from her grandparents-was a reflection of her spirited personality and love of the open road. 

Above all, Nancy's life was centered around her family and friends. She was a proud mother to her daughter, Breawna Loveless (Bridget Farrell), and a loving sister to John David Elmore. She adored her nieces, Griffin Elmore and Madison (Mylan) Shaunfield, and grandniece Wesley Shaunfield. She was a loving partner to Phil Mintz for over 25 years. She is preceded in death by her parents, Oran Jr. and Hattie Stinchcomb, and grandparents, Oran Sr. and Iris Lowe Elmore, and Charles and Isabelle Morriset Stinchcomb, and her cousin Eddie Stash. 

Nancy leaves behind countless memories of joy, laughter, and a love for life that was as boundless as the Texas skies. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew her, and her indomitable spirit will forever be remembered. 

A graveside service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in Abilene, TX on January 4th at 11am, with a celebration of life to follow at Abilene Country Club. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Camp John Marc, where Nancy enjoyed volunteering for many years. Link to give: https://www.campjohnmarc.org/in-memory-of-nancy-loveless/