Nancy Carolyn Sprague

Nancy Carolyn Sprague, 75, of Lincoln, passed away November 25, 2025, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital surrounded by her loving family.
Visitation will be from 1PM until 3 PM Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Holland Barry & Bennett Funeral Home and funeral services will follow at 3PM. Cremation rites will then be accorded, and burial will be at a later date.

Nancy was born April 30, 1950, in Lincoln, IL., the daughter of Fred and Edna (Harper) Smith. She married Christopher N. Sprague on March 15, 1969, at Lincoln Christian Church. Nancy devoted her life to caring for people. She worked at Lincoln Developmental Center before retiring from McFarland Mental Health Center.
Nancy had a love for people and animals, especially horses. She loved her grandchildren fiercely and was the most at peace when she was floating in her pool and/or reading. She was feisty and ornery in the very best ways-the kind of person who could make you laugh even while pretending to be the toughest one in the room. She spoke her mind freely but always made room for you to speak yours. Beneath her playful gruffness was a heart devoted completely to the people she loved. Her door was always open. She never missed a milestone, no matter how big or small. She showed up- for the good, hard, and ordinary days- with genuine love and was always ready to have a good time.

Survivors include her loving husband Chris Sprague, son James (Kathy) Sprague, daughter Nicole Sprague McDonnough, daughter in law Tami Sprague, daughter Cheryl (David) Berger, grandchildren: Catrina Purlee, Danny Pumphrey, Austin Sprague, Samantha Sprague(Zach), Gracelyn Sprague, Max Sprague, Nate (Ciera) Sprague, Tyler Sprague, June McDonnough, Logan McDonnough, Jared ( Faith) Berger, Wesley Berger, and Jordan (Leslie)Tabb, great-grandchildren: Rowan Sprague, Sophia Pumphrey, Ava Pumphrey, Atlas Berger, Kolten Tabb, and Khloe Tabb, sisters Margie Wilmert and Sue Teng; canine companion Macky, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved son Christopher Sprague, siblings Laura Nell Tabb, Larry Smith, and JoAnn Klokkenga, and her heart horse Pondo.

She was a constant, steady presence in the lives of those fortunate enough to be loved by her. Her passing leaves a big hole in our hearts, but her spirit, humor, and stubborn love will continue to shape us.

Memorial donations may be made to the family or to the animal rescue organization of your choice.