Nancy Jane Varner

Nancy Jane (Johnson) Varner, age 89, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 16, 1935, in Jacksonville, FL. She was the beloved daughter of Myrtle Maude Johnson and John Arthur Johnson.

An amazing wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend, Nancy lived a life rooted in her Catholic faith. She was a faithful parishioner of Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Tallahassee, Florida, where she found solace and joy in worship, and prayer.

Nancy was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Condon Varner, her sister, Anne Kathryn Phillips, her daughter Susan Lynn Ashland, and her cherished parents. She is survived by her children and their spouses, Patricia A. (Jeff) Copa, Mary J. Lockard and John (Bridgett) Varner, Jr., her nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces & nephews for whom will forever treasure her memory.

At a young age, she earned her degree in Education from Florida State University and went on to complete her Doctorate in Education. She dedicated over 40 years to teaching elementary school. Nancy touched the lives of countless children with her passion, patience, and commitment to learning. A woman of remarkable kindness and grace, Nancy loved watching the birds, gardening, reading, competitive card/board games, and spending time with her family. She devoted her life to her family, her faith, and helping others.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady Lourdes Parish (7148 Forsythe, St Louis, MO) on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 11 am. The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the service time at the church. Directly following the mass, she will be buried at the Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society in Nancy’s name.

“Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.”