Nancy Grabfelder

Nancy Lynne Kelly Grabfelder, born March 31, 1944, passed away on April 13, 2025, at the age of 81. Born Nancy Lynne Kelly, she lived a life full of warmth, creativity, and compassion.

Nancy made her home in Mobile and Orange Beach, Alabama, where she enjoyed the beauty of the Gulf Coast and the peace of the ocean she so dearly loved. She also spent part of each year with her daughter in Cary, North Carolina, cherishing time with her NC family and frends. She moved to Mobile Alabama in 1978 with her husband Raymond Grabfelder, who preceded her in death in 2013. She met Ray when she was a teenager growing up in Hollywood, Florida. They were always together until his death.

She was a devoted mother to Patricia Grabfelder Lucas in Cary, NC and Kathryne Grabfelder Ellis in Birmingham, AL, and a loving grandmother to Joshua Ellis and Sage Ellis. Her loyal dog, Bonnie Blue, was her constant companion and brought her great joy. She is also survived by nieces and nephews that include: Kathy Dillon Stolz, Kelly Dillon Moldenhauer, Jessica Grabfelder Baffa, and Adam Grabfelder.

She was also preceded in death by her parents Edward Kelly and Kitty Kelly, her sister Barbara Dillon, brother-in-law Thomas Dillon, and nephew Tommy Dillion.

A creative soul, Nancy had a gift for arts and crafts and a passion for sharing that gift with others. She volunteered at the local museum, where she led hands-on activities with children, encouraging their creativity and curiosity. She loved jigsaw puzzles. She adored the beach, whether walking the shoreline, collecting seashells, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. The coast was her sanctuary, and her happiest moments were often spent near the water.

Professionally, Nancy was admired for her dedication and work ethic as a Savings and Loan Counselor, but her true calling was found in the ways she uplifted others through her generous heart and creative spirit. Nancy's legacy lives on in her family, her community, and the many lives she touched with her warmth, wisdom, and creativity. She lived life to the fullest, albeit reluctantly without her beloved Ray. She never stopped loving and missing him. Now they are together forever