NANCY J. HARKEY

 Nancy J. Harkey, a beacon of love and faith, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Nov. 17, 2025, in St. Joseph, Michigan. Born on Jan. 4, 1943, in South Haven, Michigan, to the late Laverne and Agnes (Dukes) Hope, Nancy’s life was a testament to the power of kindness and devotion.

 On June 16, 1962, Nancy married the love of her life, Robert Harkey, in a heartfelt ceremony at Calvary Bible Church in Benton Harbor. Their union was blessed with the joys and challenges of raising a family, and although grief touched their lives with the loss of three infant sons, their parents, and her brothers, Jerry and Robert Hope, and finally her beloved husband Bob, Nancy’s spirit remained unshaken.

 Left to cherish her memory is her beloved children, William (Trisha) Harkey of Dowagiac and Betty (David) Plitt of Coloma; her treasured grandchildren, Jessica (Justin) Seitler, Becka (Charles) O’Neil, and Derek (Kayla) Plitt. She will also be lovingly remembered by her sister, Deborah (D.J.) Smith, and her sister-in-law, Marcia Hope, whose bond with Nancy was a source of strength and comfort throughout their lives.

 Nancy’s vocation as a homemaker was a clear reflection of her nurturing soul. Her hands, which had worked the soil of the family farm, were equally adept at providing comfort and care for those around her. Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her actions and thoughts. As a dedicated member of Calvary Bible Church in Benton Harbor, Michigan, Nancy’s commitment to her faith community was unwavering. She ministered in many ways including playing the piano and organ, teaching Sunday School, and working with the AWANA program.

 To know Nancy was to know genuine kindness. She was a caregiver by nature, always extending a helping hand to those in need. Her big heart and loving personality left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Nancy’s life was a living example of what it means to be faith-filled, as she walked through life with grace and a trust in her beliefs that inspired others.

 Memorial contributions may be made in Nancy’s memory to Calvary Bible Church, 3300 Territorial Road, Benton Harbor, Michigan 49022.

 A time to celebrate Nancy’s life will be held at a later time. She will be laid to rest with her husband, Robert and three infant sons at North Shore Memory Gardens.

 Memories of Nancy may be shared with her family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

 Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Niles.

 The legacy Nancy leaves behind is one of love and kindness. Her life was a beautiful tapestry of selfless acts and compassionate deeds, all woven together by her unwavering faith. Nancy J. Harkey’s memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her, as a reminder of the profound difference one loving, kind, and faith-filled soul can make in this world.