Nancy Ellen Underhill

Nancy Underhill, 90, of Freeport, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2017, to the sweet melodies of a mandolin played by a hospice volunteer. She was born on March 8, 1927, in Ohio to Roy and Mary Cave. Shortly after her birth, the family moved to South Dakota where Nancy grew up in Brookings, home of South Dakota State and the Jackrabbits. Nancy graduated from Iowa State Teachers College in Cedar Falls with a degree in physical education. While attending a summer school session at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, she met the love of her life at a square dance. She married Bennett Underhill on July 19, 1954. Nancy's middle name could easily have been "volunteer". She lived a full life of service, not only to her family, but also to many organizations. She was a member of the United Presbyterian Church for over 60 years, where she sang in the choir, played in the hand bell choir, served as a Deacon, served as a substitute organist, delivered Meals on Wheels, and tutored neighborhood children in the after school program. She was passionate about the YWCA and served on its board, helping to construct the building at 641 West Stephenson Street. Nancy became an early morning fixture at the Y's swimming pool; beginning each day with a mile swim. Nancy was a dedicated blood donor and received numerous certificates and awards from the Red Cross for her donations of blood. She was a charter member of the PEO chapter, LI, and served in its various officer positions. In addition to all these activities, she managed to find time to be a Girl Scout leader for Troop #17 at Jane Addams School. Later, she became a well-known substitute teacher for the Freeport School District. Together with her husband, Bennett, she was actively involved with Winnesheik Theater for many years. Here she served in numerous capacities from working in the box office to choreographing dance numbers and sewing costumes. They were also members of Quadrille, which provided opportunities to enjoy their love of dancing. Nancy will be deeply missed by her four children, Libby Underhill of Bemidji, MN, Roy Underhill of Milwaukee, WI, Katie Middaugh (Terry) of Shawnee, KS, David Underhill (Dana) of Freeport; eight grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, Richard, and husband, Bennett. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday, September 14th, at the United Presbyterian Church, 302 West Stephenson Street, in Freeport. A private burial will be held at Grand View Cemetery. The family wishes to express their gratitude and thanks to the staff at Parkview, Doreen Erdman, and FHN Hospice for their compassionate care of our beloved mom. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the United Presbyterian Church of Freeport or FHN Hospice. Please sign Nancy's guestbook at www.burketubbs.com