Nancy Kay Smith, age 79, died Friday, December 12, 2025, at her home in rural Grant County, Kansas. She was born on April 23, 1946, in Altus, Oklahoma, the daughter of Joe Thomas “J.T.” and Louise (Davis) Fisher.
Nancy Smith grew up in Altus, Oklahoma, where she also graduated from high school. She continued her education at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing. Dedicated to lifelong learning and service, Nancy later earned her Nurse Practitioner degree from the University of Texas.
Nancy devoted her professional career to caring for others. She worked for the State of Oklahoma – County Health for Women for several years before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, professionalism, and commitment to women’s health.
On December 10, 2010, Nancy married Larry Smith at Guido Gardens in Metter, Georgia. Together, they shared a life filled with love, travel, and treasured memories.
Nancy enjoyed gardening, but she especially loved to travel and spend time in Colorado at the cabin, a place that brought her peace and happiness. Above all else, Nancy found her greatest joy in spending time with her grandchildren, whom she loved dearly.
Nancy will be remembered for her kind heart, dedication to her family, profession, and the warmth she brought to the lives of all who knew her.
Nancy is survived by her husband, Larry of their home; son, Mike Barnes and wife Tammy of Yukon, Oklahoma; sister-in-law, Betty Fisher of Altus, Oklahoma; step-son, Bryan Smith and wife Shawna of Ulysses; grandchildren, Cody Barnes of Klamath Falls, Oregon, and Arron Barnes and wife Emma of Pensacola, Florida; great-grandchildren, Cambria and Tucker Barnes of Mustang, Oklahoma; step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren.
Nancy is preceded in death by her parents, J.T. and Louise Fisher, and brother, Eddie Fisher.
Funeral service will be Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Pleasant Prairie Church of God, 503 Road EE, Satanta, KS with Pastor Sandra Kennedy officiating. Interment will follow at the Ulysses Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday, December 17, 2025, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Garnand Funeral Home in Ulysses. Memorial contributions may be given to ABC Pregnancy Center in Garden City in care of Garnand Funeral Home, 405 W. Grant Ave, Ulysses, KS 67880. Condolences may be posted at www.garnandfuneralhomes.com.
