Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Nancy Jo Lemming McDonald Prater, 83, of Tipton, formerly of Warsaw, passed away peacefully on Feb. 16, 2026, at Aperion Care in Kokomo.
She was born on Oct. 8, 1942, in Williamsport, Ohio, to Harmon and Dorothy Thompson Lemming.
Nancy earned her beauty license while she was still in high school — she was never afraid of hard work. While she certainly could have built a career in cosmetology, she chose to pour herself into raising her children, and that was always her priority. In 1979, once the kids were older, she went to work at RR Donnelley in Warsaw as a material handler. She stayed there for 25 years before retiring in 2004.
Nancy's world revolved around her family. She served as a Girl Scout leader and loved taking her kids camping — especially the trips when she would meet up with her sister's family. Those weekends were loud, full of laughter, and the kind of memories that stick with you. She bowled in several local leagues over the years and enjoyed the friendships that came with it. But if you asked her, her greatest joy was being "Great-Grandma." She absolutely loved those kids and treasured every minute she got to spend with them.
Nancy will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her steady work ethic and the warmth she shared so freely with those she loved.
Nancy is survived by three daughters: Kim (Tom) Doyle, of Tipton; Kathy Gilbertson, of Wisconsin; and Kelly (Burl) Haywood, of Tippecanoe; two sisters, Mary Martin, of Wilmington, Del.; and Janet Metzger, of Circleville, Ohio; five grandchildren: Krista, Tera, Brandon, Jessica and Morgan; and 11 great-grandchildren: Garrett, Addison, Max, Elijah, Ryder, Josie Mae, Alexander, Justin, Emalee, Able, Conner and Elijah. She is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews, including Cindy Shoemaker, of Warsaw; Jodi Moro, of Circleville, Ohio; and Susan (Mike) Hoagland, of Warsaw; along with several others.
She was preceded in death by both her parents; her son, John McDonald; grandson, Justin Letsch; brothers, Gene Lemming and Glen Lemming; brothers-in-law, Jerry Martin and Bill Metzler; and son-in-law, Mike Gilbertson.
Nancy will be laid to rest in Palestine Cemetery in Kosciusko County following a private graveside service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Welfare League of Kosciusko County.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Keller Mortuary Services. Online condolences may be offered at www.KellerMortuary.com.
