Nancy Joy McCartney

Nancy Joy McCartney 77, Born in Rockford, IL passed away peacefully on May 29th, 2024 on Hutchinson Island, Florida. Nancy graduated from Durand High School in 1964. She was a dear friend to many, a loving daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother. Her generous heart was always ready to help anyone in need. Nancy’s infectious presence brightened every room.

Nancy began her career at Ozark Airlines (later TWA) after finishing airline school. Initially working in reservations, she later transitioned through various roles such as ticketing agent, gate agent, and baggage handler before discovering her passion on the flightline. Nancy became certified as an aircraft marshaller. She found fulfillment in her work and cherished the relationships with the ground crew. Nancy remained in this role until her retirement. Even before retiring, Nancy established a daycare at her home, fully committing to the endeavor. Her daycare not only provided care for her grandchildren but also for many other children in the community, bringing her immense happiness. Nancy’s kind and nurturing demeanor supported numerous young families in the area. Taking an additional step, Nancy joined the foster parent program, driven by the desire to provide stability for the children in her care. As a foster parent, she welcomed five young children into her heart and home. True to her promise, she ensured they never had to move again – she adopted all of them.

Her career with the airlines was the perfect fit as she had a deep love for exploring new places! She often flew with her children Phil, Paula, and Korinna. Together, they embarked on exciting adventures backpacking in Alaska, Colorado, and along the Appalachian Trail. They island hopped in Hawaii and white water rafting in Montana. In her later years, she purchased 2 RVs and journeyed to numerous destinations with her young children.  Her adventurous spirit knew no bounds. Throughout her life Nancy visited France, Denmark, Switzerland, Germany, Norway, Ireland, The U.K., Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, Mexico, Canada and all 50 states. Some cherished moments for Nancy include journeying with her granddaughter Danielle to Paris and Switzerland. Recently, Nancy and her daughter Korinna explored Norway, traveling to five cities by train. Bodø was particularly special to her, as she marveled at the Northern lights illuminating the sky. Witnessing this spectacle fulfilled a lifelong dream, and she expressed a wish to visit Lapland for more of this natural wonder. Earlier this year, she joyously celebrated her granddaughter Katrin’s 10th birthday in Ireland and had plans to revisit the country.

Nancy adored playing cards with her father, Al. She loved going to casinos with her mother Harriette and to try their luck at roulette. Every year, she placed bets on the Kentucky Derby, adding to the excitement of the event. She often played Monopoly and Scrabble with her children and grandchildren.

Nancy had a special place in her heart for animals. Throughout her life, she welcomed many feline and canine companions into her family. In her early years, she raised chickens and ducks. Showing care for all creatures; Nancy rescued, nurtured, and released numerous squirrels and raccoons. She always found joy in taking on projects, demonstrating a talent for fixing things like lawnmowers and campers during her travels. Nancy also undertook many home improvement tasks herself.

Her Grandchildren meant the world to her. She was there at the hospital for the arrival of the eldest four and traveled to New York and Florida to meet each of the younger ones. She never missed a birthday, graduation, dance recital, or sports event. Family vacations were a regular occurrence over the years. In the past year alone- she joyfully attended wedding celebrations for Alex, Danielle, and Mikinzie, Max’s Intelligence Course Graduation and Katrin’s 10th birthday in Ireland.

Nancy will forever be remembered in our hearts and thoughts, a constant reminder of the JOY she brought into everyone’s lives. Most who crossed paths with Nancy instantly became a friend. She maintained connections and showed genuine interest in everyone she met. People can attest that she was always supportive, caring, and ready to assist at a moment’s notice. She was an extraordinary woman with an exceptional capacity for love and compassion. Nancy believed that god was watching over her, guiding her every step of the way. She believed herself an instrument to help others, doing so selflessly and without expecting anything in return. By always following her heart, she demonstrated to us the kind of person we aspire to be and can become. She was, and will continue to be, a source of inspiration for all who cherished her.

Nancy is survived by her children- Phillip (Mariya) Walsh, Paula (Randy) Lutzow, Korinna McCartney, Jackie McCartney, Michael (Jessica) McCartney, John McCartney, and William McCartney. Siblings Dave (Maxine) McCartney and James “Woody” (Karen) McCartney. Grandchildren Alex (Stacie) McCartney, Colton Cull, Danielle (Joe) Kramar, Mikinzie (Eric) Kwon, Maxwell Walsh, Katrin Walsh, Oliver McCartney, Theadore McCartney, and Elijah McCartney.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents Allen and Harriette McCartney; son Bradley McCartney; and granddaughter Lucy Walsh.

We love you Nancy- then, now, and forever. It’s truly special to have you watching over us from above. Although we feel your absence here, we will be blessed when we see you again. Be free you beautiful woman!  Nancy desired cremation and a joyous celebration of her life. She often expressed, “Do not mourn for me, be happy. I will be free, and I will see you all again”.  A celebration of her life will be organized at a future time.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.