Nancy Lee Reckling, 74, of Kinmundy, Illinois passed away at 10:27 pm, Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at her son and daughter-in-law’s home in Kinmundy.
Nancy was born on February 25, 1949, in Salem Township Hospital in Salem, the daughter of Robert W. and Mrytle Maxine (Tate) Elston. She married Thomas L. Reckling on December 30, 1983, at the Kinmundy Christian Church and they only got to share 3 years of marriage before he passed away on February 16, 1987.
After completing her education with an Associate Degree in Nursing, Nancy dedicated her life to caring for others. She spent many years as a Registered Nurse at Salem Township Hospital, where her compassion left a lasting impact on her patients and colleagues alike. Nancy’s commitment to healthcare and her ability to spread warmth and kindness will be remembered by all who had the privilege of working alongside her. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Nancy was an individual of many interests and talents. She had a particular passion for the beauty of nature, which was reflected in her love for planting and growing flowers. Her garden was a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances that brought joy not only to her but also to everyone who beheld it. Nancy’s green thumb and her nurturing care allowed her garden to flourish season after season. Nancy also possessed a remarkable skill in the arts of crocheting and crafting. Her hands created over 100 afghans, each a testament to her patience, artistry, and generous spirit. These handcrafted treasures became symbols of her love and are cherished keepsakes for those who received them. Her creativity and attention to detail were evident in every stitch, and her crafts brought warmth and beauty into the homes of friends and family.
Nancy is survived by her children: Micheal (Jenny) Elston of Kinmundy, Illinois, Mark (Melssa) Elston of Herrin, Illinois; stepson: Gregory (Linda) Reckling of Carlyle, Illinois; grandchildren: Landon Elston, Alex Elston, Samantha Elston, Jacob Elston, Angel Albaugh, and Anna McCarty; great-grandchildren: James, Carson, Nevaeh, and Anakin; brother: John( Juanita) Elston of Bicknell, Indiana; 2 nieces: Felicia (Jack) Madura of Joliet, Illinois, Lori (Gary) Allsman of Bicknell, Indiana; nephew: Buddy Goettsch of Hammond, Indiana.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, and sister: Patricia Goettsch.
Funeral services to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held at 1:00 pm, Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at the McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy, with Josh Conley officiating. Burial will follow at the Elder Cemetery, rural Kinmundy. Visitation will be held on Wednesday at the funeral home where friends may call from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Nancy’s memory to either St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Oil Belt Christian Service Camp and will be accepted through the funeral home. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory of Nancy, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.
