Nancy S. Derby

Nancy Sue Derby, 67, of Grayslake, passed away on September 11th, 2024, in Libertyville. While our hearts mourn her loss, we find solace in knowing she is no longer suffering.

Nancy married Joe Derby on March 3, 1973, in Waukegan, celebrating 51 years together. Before retiring in 2016, she worked as a cake decorator at Jewel for 28 years. She even decorated her children’s birthday cakes at home and loved baking with her girls when they were younger.

Nancy and Joe spent most of their lives in Waukegan before moving to Grayslake, where they settled into her dream home on the water. The view from her bedroom window was absolutely beautiful, with gorgeous sunsets reflecting off the water. In her free time, Nancy enjoyed playing Spades, reading romance novels, and watching game shows at night. She also loved listening to rock music and cheering on the Chicago Bears. Most of all, she cherished spending time with her family.

Nancy is survived by her husband, Joe; their three daughters, Cheryl (Shawn) Learmont, Melisa (Michael) Richter, and Cassie (Nick Santi) Derby; her sister Marilyn; her sister-in-law Dolores “Dee”; her cousin Linda; her nine grandchildren, Ivy, Shawn, Autumn, Ian, Anthony, Ethan, Andrea, Aiden, and Ariana; and her three great-grandchildren, Presley, Elliott, and Alice, along with other family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Elizabeth Shisler; her son Joseph “Joey”; her brother Raymond; and her brother-in-law Calvin. 

Nancy will be remembered for her quiet strength and the simple pleasures she cherished.

A “Celebration of Life & Memorial Service” for family and close friends will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 12-4 p.m. at Nancy’s dream home. Flowers can be sent to 6 Derby Ct, Grayslake, IL 60030, addressed to the Derby Family.