Nancy Lou Kisling (Ney)

Nancy Lou Kisling (Ney), born June 24, 1953, in Dayton, Ohio, slipped peacefully from this world on June 20, 2026, at Bellbrook Health and Rehab after a lengthy illness. Nancy’s life sparkled with distinct energy—memories of her echo in quick laughter and keen wit, and her absence leaves a space laced with stories, laughter, and the warmth she brought to all who loved her.

From her earliest days in Dayton as the lively middle child of Ralph and Gerry Ney—both gone before her—Nancy offered a rare brilliance to the world around her. She was the sibling who wore her "middle child syndrome" not as a burden but as a badge, and she wove humor and soulfulness into the tapestry of her family. Steve Ney, her beloved baby brother, predeceased her as well, yet their shared joy and sibling antics live on in memory and story.

A proud graduate of Miamisburg High School, Class of 1971, Nancy kept the memories of her school days close. Her sharp mind—often described as photographic—was a gift that fueled her eclectic interests and propelled her through over three decades of dedicated work at Orthopedic Associates of Southwest Ohio, from which she retired. Her colleagues will remember her as a woman who was not only very intelligent but whose quick-witted nature and extraordinary sense of humor made the workplace feel like a second family.

There was nothing ordinary about Nancy. She was lovingly known as "Fancy Nancy," always ensuring her nails were perfectly done and never seen without her hallmark silver jewelry. She was authentic, proud, and ever unafraid to march to the beat of her own drum. Nancy’s style was as much a reflection of her personality as her love for the whimsical—a queen of individuality, admired in her delightfully unique way of being.

Nancy’s heart found joy in simple pleasures and quiet passions. Her home was one where her four cats, Merlin, Morgana, Elspeth, and Mactavish, found sanctuary, books stacked high in readiness for hours of reading, and the aroma of cookies baking filled the air when children gathered for laughter and sweet treats. She cherished swimming, the exhilarating optimism of the weekly lottery ticket, and the ritual of sharing each moment with those around her with her signature crooked smile.

Her legacy continues through those she leaves behind: her sister, Linda Frazier, her sister-in-law, Beverly Ney, nieces, Crystal Ney (Randall Turner), Amanda Ney, and her children Harley and Rowan, Stephanie Honious, and Terra Moniaci and her children, Vincent and Victor —each carrying pieces of her presence, humor, and wisdom forward. To be loved by Nancy was to know the embrace of her honest affection, to share in jokes and stories, to bake together in the kitchen, or to simply nap in quiet companionable silence as the world spun on.

Nancy’s story is stitched together from the glimmering threads of humor and resilience, quiet rebellion and deep intelligence. Though she has journeyed onward, the imprint of her singular life will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, kindling laughter, memory, and inspiration for years yet to come. 

Nancy's family would like to thank Bellbrook Health & Rehab (special thanks to Terry, Ray, and staff), PAM Rehab, Dr. Andaluz and the team at University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Miami Valley Main and South Campuses, for all of their wonderful compassion and care.

A memorial service in remembrance and celebration of Nancy will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Family and friends are welcome to visit from 11:00 am until the time of service. In honor of Nancy, memorial contributions can be made to SICSA or to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton by visiting the links below.

"Love your face!"