Nancy Willabelle Shaw Friend was born to William (Bill) and Nancy Shaw of Council, Idaho on February 23, 1930 in the Cambridge Hotel in Cambridge, Idaho, the youngest of 6 children. She passed peacefully at the age of 94 on December 22, 2024 at her home surrounded by family. Nancy was known as Willabelle for a large portion of her life. By either name she was an amazing Wife, Mom (5 + 1), Grandma (12), Great Grandma (30), Great Great Grandma (2), Aunt, Cousin and Friend. She graduated from Notus High School, met Clay Friend and married him 2 years later. It was a short marriage, only 74 years and 9 months, living in Notus, Burns, Oregon and Boise. She enjoyed life; music, fishing, rodeos, camping, family, tutoring grandchildren and great grandchildren, and helping out where needed. She was a crack shot, equestrian, Brownie Leader, a neighborhood mom, a classroom volunteer, a member of the PTA, a kid shuttle service, worked many, many fundraisers for school programs and activities (including her Great Grandchildren's), a volunteer for Eagle Days VFD events, a teachers aid, a good neighbor and compassionate soul. Everyone knew she loved them and would do anything for them. We are much better for knowing and being raised by her. She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters, brother, a daughter, and many friends and relatives.
She was our sunshine and will be forever missed.
Graveside service will be held on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Idaho State Veteran Cemetery.