Nancy Elise Whitsell

Nancy was born December 19, 1939, in Lawrence, Massachusetts to the late Palmer Kitchin and Betty (Yelch) Kitchin Carnahan, She graduated from F.J. Reitz High School in 1957 and later, after she was married and had children, she graduated from the Indiana State University Evansville (ISUE) with a BS Degree in Elementary Education.

Nancy worked as a substitute teacher for the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corporation and taught at the Lockyear’s Business College and at the Earle C. Clements Job Corps. Nancy managed Sidney’s Uniform Shop and the Uniform Shop before opening The Arbor, a women’s specialty shop. She operated her own business from 1981 to 1989. After closing her business, she also worked for Naas Concrete, as a financial advisor for Ameriprise Financial, and as an annuity operations manager at Old National Bank where she retired in 2005.

Nancy was known for being fun-loving, her infectious laughter, and living her life to the fullest. She loved spending time outdoors, camping, and cooking for her family and friends. One of her greatest companions was her beloved dog, Koda Bear, who brought her endless happiness.

In past years Nancy has been a member of the Job’s Daughters, a charter member of the Evansville chapter of the Phi Iota XI, Evansville Children’s Theater, a Girl Scout leader, and the president of IAAP (International Association of Administrative Professionals) from 2003-2004. She was a member of the Lakeside New Beginnings Church and the St. Vincent’s Dog Therapy Program.

She was preceded in death by her parents; step-father Ernest Carnahan; and her husband of 52 years, Donald.

Nancy is survived by 2 sisters, Vicki (Carnahan) Schmitt (Don), and Bonnie Carnahan; son, Mark Curtis Whitsell (Robin); daughter, Kathleen Elise Shockley (Robert); grandchildren, Adin and Ryan Shockley, Mark, Scott, Tracy and Katie Whitsell; and 11 great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Wounded Warriors, Paralyzed Veterans Organization, or the Angel Tree Summer Camp for children whose parents are in prison.

A Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 26, 2024 at Alexander West Chapel, 2100 W. Illinois Street, Evansville, IN officiated by Pastor Doug Horner followed by burial at Alexander Memorial Park.

Friends and family may visit on Sunday, August 25 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com