Heaven has gained another angel to sing in the choir. Nancy Ann Smith, age 88, of Ellison Bay, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2026 and joined her loving husband in heaven.
The oldest of six children, Nancy was born on September 9, 1937 in Chicago to Raymond and Dorothy Schultz. She grew up bringing joy to others through her beautiful singing voice. Nancy learned to sing along to her father's piano and quickly became popular, performing on the legendary radio station WLS in Chicago and later turning down an opportunity to sing on the Lawrence Welk Show.
After seeking advice from a priest, she chose a life dedicated to her family and her faith rather than fame and fortune. Nancy married Ronald Smith on May 28, 1960. They honeymooned in Door County and later moved from Hanover Park to their old farmhouse in Ellison Bay where they raised three children.
Their marriage was an example of immense faith, love, selflessness, forgiveness, and simplicity. Nancy was devoted to her Catholic faith. Whether you needed help with a big life decision, prayers for a pet, or simply lost your car keys she knew exactly which Saint would help you. She brought joy to everyone through song, continuing to perform in her late 80's to all who would listen. She enjoyed being surrounded by beautiful things and was immensely proud of the artwork created by her family members, hanging every picture on the wall.
She is survived by her three children, Eric (Patrice Champeau) Smith, Kurt (Caroline) Smith, and Trina (Tom) Caldecott; grandchildren, Erika Smith, Brandon Smith, Kai Smith, Ruby Smith, Ashley (Charles) Thurber, Kara (Sam) Forkert, Bria Caldecott, Rylan Caldecott; and great grandchildren, Gilligan Thurber, Roger Thurber, Pete Thurber, Mack Forkert, and Baby Forkert. Nancy was preceded in death by her loving husband of 65 years, Ronald Smith; parents, Raymond Schultz and Dorothy Schultz; brother, Tom Schultz; and nephew, Johnny Schultz.
A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday May 29, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Stella Maris Parish - Sister Bay site (2410 S. Bay Shore Dr., Sister Bay WI 54234) with Fr. Thomas Farrell officiating. Burial will take place in St. Rosalia Catholic Cemetery in Sister Bay. Visitation will be held at church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m.
Nancy's presence will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and songbirds who visited the bird feeder in her window daily. In remembrance of Nancy, please add some extra seeds to your yard this year.
Casperson Funeral Home & Cremation Services LLC in Sister Bay, is assisting the Smith family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Nancy may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.CaspersonFuneralHome.com.
