Nancy Irene Luikart

Nancy Irene Luikart, born November 5, 1941, passed away in the early afternoon on March 8, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and community.

Nancy graduated from Wyandotte High School with the Class of 1959 and cherished the friendships formed during those years throughout her life. She had a remarkable gift for maintaining connections, whether through organizing reunions or simply reaching out with a heartfelt phone call or a thoughtful Hallmark card.

She married George Byron Luikart on February 27, 1960, and together they built a loving family until his passing in September 1992. Years later, while helping plan a high school reunion, Nancy reconnected with Jay Winslow Deane. Their chance encounter blossomed into companionship and love, leading to 21 wonderful years together and their marriage on September 6, 2020. They remained devoted partners until Jay’s passing on May 3, 2024.

Nancy lived a rich life filled with creativity, connection, and faith. She enjoyed attending craft retreats, playing mahjong, and Bible journaling. Her creative spirit and joyful energy brightened every gathering, and she found great pleasure in laughter, conversation, and being surrounded by those she loved.

One of her greatest joys was supporting her grandchildren in their youth sports activities. She became known as “Grandma Nancy” to all the children on the teams, cheering loudly from the sidelines, offering encouragement, and celebrating every moment with pride. When her son Mike Luikart’s family moved from Kansas to Zionsville, Indiana, in 2007, Nancy made the 509-mile trip many weekends to attend games, school events, and milestones. Nine years ago, she moved to Zionsville herself so she could remain closely involved in the lives of those she cherished.

Her faith was a guiding force in her life. Nancy was an active volunteer at Traders Point Christian Church, where she found purpose and fellowship through serving others. She was also a devoted member of the Rebekah Lodge, the Odd Fellows Ladies Auxiliary, the Fraternal Order of Eagles #87, and the Eastern Star.

Professionally, Nancy worked most of her career as a bookkeeper, known for her diligence, reliability, and strong work ethic. After retiring, she continued giving to her community by working in the Zionsville Community Schools cafeteria, where her kindness and friendly smile brightened the days of students and staff alike.

Nancy will be remembered for her generous heart, steadfast faith, and the love she so freely gave to everyone around her. Her lively spirit and caring nature made people feel welcome, valued, and loved. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Irene Hill; her siblings, Gene Hill, Bennie Hill, Donald Hill, Wayne Hill, Fred Hill, and Mary Hill; and her beloved husbands, George Luikart and Jay Deane.

She is survived by her brother, David Hill (Deborah); her sister, Betty Kimble; her sons, Byron Luikart (Gina), Michael Luikart (Barbara), Jeff Deane (Beth), and Jim Deane (Diana); and her cherished grandchildren, Justin Luikart, Laura Edwards, Brad Luikart (Jasmine), Aaron Luikart (Savannah), Kaitlyn Luikart, and Mackenzie Luikart. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Henry Luikart and Lily Robinson, and she is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.