Nancy Jane Jordan (née Ward) passed away on August 8, 2026 at the age of 89. Known by several surnames throughout the different chapters of her life, including Ray and Krupnow, she lived a long and eventful life marked by resilience, independence, and determination.

Nancy was not an overly sentimental person, but she possessed many qualities that left a lasting impression on those who knew her. She was strong-willed, resourceful, intelligent, and outspoken. She faced considerable hardship throughout her life and continued moving forward through circumstances that might have defeated someone else. She had a distinct personality, firm opinions, and a way of approaching life that was entirely her own.

Books were Nancy’s constant companions, but her curiosity extended far beyond the page. She loved music, game shows, especially Jeopardy, and learning something new whenever the opportunity presented itself. She was always asking questions and frequently called her daughter with a new curiosity, asking her to “Google” whatever had caught her attention that day.

Nancy was also a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for more than 60 years. Her faith was a central part of her life, and she was never shy about sharing it. In one especially memorable example, she once gave a pizza delivery driver a copy of the Book of Mormon as a tip, a story that perfectly captured both the strength of her convictions and her unmistakably individual way of expressing them.

Nancy was the mother of eight children. She was preceded in death by her parents, Eunice Ward (née Robinson) and Boyd James Ward; her brother, Monty Ward; her sister, Sharon Frye (née Ward); her children, Carrie Diehl (née Ray), William “Bill” Ray Jr., and Theodore “Teddy” Krupnow II; her husband, Oscar Jordan; and her former husbands, William “Bill” Ray Sr. and Theodore “Ted” Krupnow I.

She is survived by her children, Lori Ray, Brian Ray, Dana Ray, Melita Ray, and Victoria “Tori” Krupnow, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Nancy’s life was complex, as most lives are, and she will be remembered differently by each person who knew her. Those who loved her will carry their own memories of her, the lessons she taught, both directly and indirectly, and the mark she left on their lives.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Sun Prairie Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 6651 Prairie View Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590.