Nina Ruth Keller Nailling's Obituary
Nina Ruth Keller Nailling passed away peacefully January 28, 2023 at the Good Shepherd Hospice House in Lakeland, Florida at the age of 97.
Born in Lingo, New Mexico, she moved to Lakeland following her marriage in 1945 to Robert W. Nailling, whom she met while working to support WWII efforts at Clovis Army Air Base. Nina balanced raising two young children and secretarial jobs prior to full time work for the Florida Conference of the United Methodist Church. She was Executive Assistant for four Florida Conference Bishops before retiring after 29 years of devoted service. Her diligent work and personal curiosities led to travels around the globe-experiences that she shared with friends and family. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Lakeland since 1946, the United Methodist Women Circle#3, Lakeland Women’s Club, and PEO Chapter DO. Predeceased by Robert (“Bob”) in 1985, Nina is survived by her loving family: son Kenneth Nailling (Beverly), daughter Karen Chase (John), grandchildren Joyce Schwab (Lawrence), Amy Hillis (Glenn), Andrew Chase (Ashley) and Matthew Chase. She had the joy of spending time with all four great-grandchildren John, Oliver, Madison, and Grayson.
Family proudly notes that Nina led a remarkable life of adventure, travels, service, wisdom, and fortitude. A celebration gathering will be planned for a future date. As Nina was always generous with her time, treasure and many talents, she would ask only that you honor her long life with kind deeds and/or contribute to a charity of your choice, in lieu of flowers.
A Celebration of Life will be Saturday, April 29, 2023 at 10 am at First United Methodist Church, with a reception to follow.
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