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In memory of

Nancy Spranley Kearney

Riverwoods, IL

May 20, 1948 - April 21, 2026

May 20, 1948 - Apr 21, 2026

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Nancy Spranley Kearney, 77, passed away unexpectedly after a recent medical procedure on April 21, 2026, in Highland Park, Illinois.

Born May 20, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, she was the beloved daughter of Maurice Sheridan Spranley and Helen Hanneman Spranley. A lifelong New Orleanian, Nancy carried the warmth and faith of her hometown wherever she went. Last year, she moved to Riverwoods, Illinois, to help care for her three young grandchildren, a role she embraced with deep love and joy.

Nancy was a devoted member of St. Pius X Parish in New Orleans. Alongside her late husband, Robert James “Bob” Kearney, she founded and led the St. Pius X Players, a summer theatre ministry that brought families together for over a decade. She also served as a cantor and a member of the adult choir, sharing her musical gifts with her parish community.

She is survived by her loving blended family: Bob (Cheryl) Kearney, Sara (John) Kearney, John Kearney, James (Julie) Kearney, Paul (Leslie) Kearney, and Ellen (Windi) Kearney, and her many beloved grandchildren. Also her brother Tom (Lori) Spranley and her nieces and nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert James Kearney; her stepchildren, Mary (Rick) Reveley and Timothy (Linda) Kearney; and her brother, Denny (Lesley) Spranley.

Nancy will be remembered for her generous spirit, unwavering faith, and the way she made everyone feel welcome and loved.

A memorial service will be held on May 2, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at The Glen Club in Glenview, Illinois. A funeral service will follow on May 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at St. Pius X Church in New Orleans, Louisiana, with a reception for immediate family and close friends to follow.