Nancy attended The University of Kansas, graduating with her Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 1965 and with her Master’s Degree in Music Education in 1976. She also attended The University of Nebraska where she received her Master’s Degree in Fine Arts in 1987.
Nancy dedicated her life to teaching and acting. As an educator, Nancy invested her whole self in the young people in her life, from family to students. She nurtured and mentored countless students, fostering community and trust alongside a love for theatre and performing. She was The Coterie Theater’s very first Education Director; Nancy established the foundation on which their education program is built. She was also instrumental in the early growth of the company. After a decade in her director role, Nancy spent another 10 years as a teaching artist.
Nancy was an incredible actress who was not afraid to take risks on stage, putting her whole self into every role she played. Her favorite role was Shirley Valentine at Quality Hill Playhouse, in 1996. She was also very proud of her work on a children’s syndicated Nebraska educational television series, Strawberry Square. Over the years, Nancy has performed with the Nebraska Repertory Theatre, Nebraska Theatre Caravan, Okoboji Summer Theater, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, Unicorn Theatre, American Heartland Theatre, Quality Hill Playhouse, Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre, The Black Box Theater, Maples Repertory Theater, KC Melting Pot Theater, and The Coterie Theatre.
Nancy had a deep love for animals, always finding and caring for those who needed her most. Her home was a sanctuary for people and pets in times of need, reflecting her unwavering belief in the goodness of others. Nancy volunteered at the Northland Therapeutic Riding Center to be near the majestic animals she loved. She also loved nature and gardening. Her Black-eyed Susans can be found in the yards of friends and family all over Kansas City.
Nancy was an active and dedicated member of the Church of the Good Shepherd. She showed the love of Christ with her participation and membership in the Daughters of the King, church choir, vestry, the Good Shepherd Players, and she assisted with the children’s nativity play. Nancy also took pride in her English heritage. She was a member of the Daughters of the British Empire, The Bards of Avon chapter.
In 2000, Nancy was able to connect with her biological son, Thomas Talkington. They were able to build a special relationship; Tom and his family became an important part of Nancy’s life.
Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, Joe Kenneth Marcy and Mary Elizabeth Marcy; brother, Gary Lynn Marcy; son, Thomas Lyle Talkington; and an infant sister.
Nancy is survived by her sister, MaryAnn Evans; nieces and nephews Michael and Rachel Marcy, Dan Evans, Charles (Kenny) Evans, and Marcy O’Brien; grandchildren Camille and Jack Talkington; great niece “granddaughter” Kailyn Jo Marcy; nine great nieces and nephews, and seven great-great nieces and nephews.
Nancy had a very full life, touching many hearts along the way. Her laugh was infectious and her love for others was fierce. She was always ready to share a comforting hug, and a cuppa tea or glass of wine.
In lieu of flowers, Nancy has requested donations be made to The Coterie Theatre Education Programs. Please reference her name in the donation notes online or on the check to ensure these funds are designated to education: https://ci.ovationtix.com/34948/store/donations/53870
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Crown Center Coterie Theater Education Programs2450 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, Missouri 64108
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