Mrs. Nancy Lee Dunwiddie, age 83, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Thursday, December 7, 2023, at the Capital Region Medical Center surrounded by her family.

Nancy was born on October 20, 1940, on the family farm in Howard County, Mo., a daughter of David Harden and Glenna Lucile (Fisher) Dougherty. 

Nancy, a lifelong resident of central Missouri, graduated from Fayette High School in 1958. Growing up on a farm, she actively participated in farm life, tending to livestock and showcasing her involvement in the 4H club, even taking part in calf exhibitions. Additionally, she was a dedicated member of the FHA (Future Homemaker of America).

Upon starting her professional journey, Nancy relocated to Jefferson City. It was during this period that fate intervened, as friends introduced her to James S. (Jim) Dunwiddie. They were married on July 29, 1961, at New Hope Church in Bunker Hill, Mo., sharing 62 years together.

She was employed as an executive secretary for over 32 years with the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives in Jefferson City. She was previously employed with the state of Missouri for over 15 years in several capacities. She started in the Secretary of State’s Office, then transitioned to Governor Warren Hearns’s office, and worked briefly at the Board of Accountancy before she went to work at the Electric Cooperatives. 

She was a faithful member of the First Christian Church. During her retirement, she volunteered in the Partner Program through Capital Region Medical Center and worked part-time at Whaley’s Drug Store. 

Nancy lived life to the fullest and had many passions. She took great joy in cooking and holiday decorating, turning her home into a festive haven. Her regular meetings with a coffee group at Panera provided lively companionship. Nancy also looked forward to sun-soaked trips to Hawaii and Mexico, as well as day trips to admire fall foliage. Weekends were reserved for adventures in Kansas City, St. Louis, Branson, and Bentonville, Arkansas. 

Nancy was a very energetic, hardworking person, consistently giving her best with everything she did in life, especially in her employment. Nancy possessed an extraordinary knack for creating something spectacular out of seemingly nothing, a skill that shone brightly in her renowned last-minute spreads of delicious food and her genuine delight in crafting and savoring sweets. Her legacy will forever be intertwined with her meticulous approach to organization, ensuring that everything had its designated place. Never one to overlook a birthday or anniversary, Nancy consistently demonstrated her thoughtfulness through generously bestowed gifts following her shopping expeditions. 

More than anything, quality time with family during all activities always took precedence. She loved being with her people and wholeheartedly supported them in all their pursuits. Her essence epitomized class, and to have known her was undeniably a blessing.

Survivors include her loving husband, Jim Dunwiddie; one son, Russell Dunwiddie (Kathy) of Jefferson City, Mo.; one sister, Debbie Wiswall (Dave) of Fayette, Mo.; nephew, Derry Wiswall  (Carrie) of Fayette, Mo.; niece, Dana Martin (Travis) of Millersburg, Mo.; seven great nieces and nephews, Dawson, Logan and Owen Wiswall, Ava and Justus Martin, and Morgan and Raylen Dix.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held at First Christian Church from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Saturday, December 16, 2023.

A memorial service will be conducted at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at First Christian Church, with the Reverend Dr. Michael Dunn officiating. A private graveside service will be held at New Hope Church Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to First Christian Church, 327 E. Capitol Avenue, Jefferson City, Mo. 65101, or New Hope Cemetery Association, 2401 State Route H, Fayette, Mo. 65248.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.