Nancy (Porter) Smith

Nancy Porter Smith – Obituary

Nancy Porter Smith was the daughter of Robert & Lucille Porter born October 17, 1934 in Lima, Ohio. Graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics in 1956. Married to Bob Crawford for 43 years; predeceased by her parents, son Stephen Smith, step grandson Shaun Bradbury, and step daughter Cindy Bradbury. Survived by her husband Bob Crawford of Freeport, IL, daughter Julie (Ed) Manton of Florissant, MO, sister Sara Hobson of Ft. Wayne, IN, son in law John Bradbury, step children Lisa Lind and Tim Crawford. Grandchildren: Karen, Laura, & Nick Bradbury, Stephanie & Sierra (Eric) Harweger, great grandchildren Collin & Kaylynn Heidenreich, Kamryn & Kalli Bradbury, and Lily Bradbury. Great great grandchildren; Olive Mathew’s, Shepherd & Hayes Heidenreich. Niece Chrissy (Chris) Busche and children.

Nancy worked for the American Red Cross for 25 years in Freeport & Rockford Illinois retiring in 1997 as chapter manager of the Rock River Chapter. She received the Tiffany Award, the organizations highest award for employee excellence in 1992 which was presented by Elizabeth Dole in Baltimore Maryland at the National Convention.

During her tenure, the Rock River Chapter began several community programs; the Infant Car Seat Loan program and seat belt education which increased seat belt usage by 50% and the Red Cross Homeless Shelter. She was instrumental in establishing an emergency shelter for the homeless in 1984. The Red Cross homeless shelter was later named in her honor. Mayor Box made the presentation of the sign at her retirement. It was open until 2009, when the Rescue Mission took it over for a women’s shelter.

Shortly after coming to Rockford in 1982, she became involved in the newly formed Women’s Network and was president for a term. She also belonged to the downtown Rotary and Quota a service organization for hearing impaired.

Nancy received many plaques and awards during her career from both local and national organizations. She was a long time member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church and was on the Altar Guild in Rockford, IL for many years. Nancy enjoyed gardening at home and was also involved in the Jeremiah Development Community Garden since 2012.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Red Cross, Rock River Chapter, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, or Grace Episcopal Church.

A memorial service with Eucharist will be held Friday, February 28, 2025 at 11:00 in Grace Episcopal Church, 10 S. Cherry Ave. Freeport, Illinois with a lunch reception after.