Linda Ruth Nance

Linda Ruth (Nelson) Nance of Thornton, Texas, passed away surrounded by love and family on November 13, 2022, at the age of 79.  Her memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Saturday, December 3, 2022, at Christ Episcopal Church in Mexia, Texas with Reverend Ray Bagby officiating.  Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00 pm.  Interment will take place at a later date at King Cemetery.

Linda was born on March 13, 1943, in Baytown, Texas.  She was the oldest child and only daughter of James M. and Pearl Ruth Nelson.  Linda graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1961, and then went on to receive her Associate’s Degree.  On May 6, 1964, Linda married Michael Timothy Nance.  Their son, Charles, was born in 1966; and they adopted their daughter, Deborah, in 1970, while living in Germany.  After 20 years as a U.S Air Force family, they retired in Valdosta, Georgia, in 1985, before moving back to Texas in 1989.

As a teenager Linda worked in her parents sporting goods store in Baytown, and she discovered a talent for working in the retail environment.  Always one to give generously of her time and love, Linda was also a choir member at Christ Episcopal Church, a long-time member of the Thornton Chamber of Commerce, an officer of the Thornton Cemetery Association, a Friend of the Groesbeck Public Library, and a faithful member of the Groesbeck Joy of Living Bible Study.  Throughout her life, she remained deeply committed to her extended family and to her many friends.

Her life continues to be celebrated by her son, Charles Michael Nance and daughter-in-law Elizabeth “Elaine” of Groesbeck, Texas; granddaughter, Aislinn Ruth Craig, grandson-in-law Trevor, and great-grandson, Cooper Allen of Amarillo, Texas; granddaughter, Willow Rowan Walton of Lubbock, Texas; grandson, Michael Walker James Walton and son-in-law, Ben Walton of Omaha, Nebraska; mother-in-law, Patsy Nance of Thornton, Texas; brother, Mart Nelson and sister-in-law, Rosemary of Irving, Texas; brother, Thomas Nelson and sister-in-law, Leta of Carrolton, Texas; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She is preceded in death by her husband, daughter, and parents.