Nancy J. (Lyons) Kearns

Nancy J. (Lyons) Kearns, 84, passed away at 8:15 P.M. on Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the Genesis Hospice Morrison-House, Zanesville, Ohio. She was born August 27, 1940, in Zanesville to the late Gilbert “Bill” and Betty (Sechrest) Lyons. Nancy graduated from Adamsville High School (Ohio) in 1957, and Ohio University in 1970, with a degree in English.

Nancy taught school at Adamsville Elementary for 6 years and then 30 years for Collier County Schools in Naples, Florida. She loved teaching and her students loved having her. After retirement, Nancy moved back to Ohio with her husband to be closer to family. She loved to travel and had a passion for knitting. She was a lifelong fan of the arts, especially history and literature. She was very proud of her house and flower beds as well.

Nancy is survived by her sons, Tim Prouty of Zanesville, Alan (Julie) Prouty of Adamsville, and Lynn (Shelli) Kearns of Pflugerville, Texas; grandchildren, Melissa Prouty, Dustin (Hollie) Prouty, Adam (Brooke) Prouty, Ashley (Kyle) Kistler, Austin (Jacquie) Prouty, Tyler (Amy) Prouty, Logan (Gina) Prouty, Scott (Bunny) Evancho, Danielle Edgerley, Jordan Edgerley, Savanna (Jacob) Sutphin, Abby (Will) Cisco, Alexander Kearns, and granddaughter-in-law, Lexi Prouty; sister, Carolyn Prouty of Adamsville; brother, Stan (Bernie) Lyons of Port Charlotte, Florida, sisters-in-law, Debbie Lyons and Bonnie Shultz; 21 great grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents she is preceded in death by her husband of 37 years, Gary Kearns who passed away on July 23, 2011; her son Lester “Lecie” Prouty; her grandson, Collin Prouty; brothers, Gilbert Dale Lyons, Richard “Ricky” Lyons; and daughter-in-law, Melody Prouty.

The family would like to express their gratitude for the care that the Genesis Hospice Morrison-House staff provided Nancy.

A caring cremation will take place under the direction of the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, The family will hold a Celebration of Nancy’s Life at a later date.

To send a note of condolence please: visit www.bolin-dierkesfuneralhome.com , follow us on Facebook, or call our professional staff at 740-452-4551.