Nancy Jane Smith Havelin, a cherished resident of Ocean Springs, Mississippi for 57 years, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 29, 2026, in Jerseyville, Illinois, where she has resided with her family for the past 3 1/2 years. Born on February 19, 1945, in Utica, New York, Nancy led a life marked by dedication, kindness, and devotion to her loved ones.

Nancy graduated from Vernon-Verona-Sherrill High School in Verona, New York, and went on to attend Geneva School of Practical Nursing, earning her LPN degree in 1967. She devoted much of her professional life to the Ocean Springs Hospital System, from which she retired around 2012. Her commitment to healthcare and service touched many lives throughout her career.

Known for her serene and thoughtful nature, Nancy loved simple pleasures. She enjoyed sitting on her porch, savoring her morning coffee, and unraveling the daily crossword puzzle in the newspaper. She found immense joy and fulfillment in spoiling her grandchildren, who were the light of her life.

Nancy was a devoted family woman. She is survived by her beloved daughter, Jennifer Evans and her husband Jeff of Alton, Illinois; stepdaughter, Mary Lee Hurlburt and her husband Gordie of Seneca Falls, New York; and stepson, George Havelin, Jr. and his wife Anne of Seneca Falls, New York. Her grandchildren—Hannah Evans, Katelyn Evans, and Kaleigh Evans—all from Alton, Illinois, along with several step-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a wide circle of loving family members and friends, continue to cherish her memory.

She was preceded in death by her husband, George Havelin; her father, Richard Smith; her mother, Jane Basher; her stepfather, George Basher; and her sister, Patricia Smith.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Riemann Family Funeral Home - West Jackson County, located at 13872 Lemoyne Blvd, Biloxi, MS. A second visitation will be held the next day, April 8, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 11:00 AM, all at the same location. She will then be laid to rest at Crestlawn Memorial Park, 4111 Bienville Blvd, Ocean Springs, MS.

Nancy Jane Smith Havelin's legacy is one of warmth, dedication, and heartfelt love. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know her, yet her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of her family and community. Please sign the online guestbook and share memories & photos at www.riemannfamily.com