Nancy N. (Nicholl) Lile, 89, of Bellefontaine, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Nancy was born June 13, 1936, in Bellefontaine to the late A. D. “Dewey” Nicholl and Lola (Kinney) Nicholl. In 1958, she married her high school sweetheart, Levi W. Lile, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Annabelle Mason, Jane Lautenbach, and Dewey Richard “Dick” Nicholl.

Nancy was a lifelong learner and educator. She graduated from Wittenberg University and later earned her master’s degree from the University of Dayton. She went on to serve as Dean of Northwestern Business College, where she influenced countless students through her leadership and dedication to education.

Her professional life was complemented by her deep commitment to family and community. Her first job out of college was with the Girl Scouts, reflecting a lifelong devotion to mentoring young people. She also worked alongside her husband in his law practice, contributing quietly but meaningfully to his professional endeavors.

Nancy possessed a curious mind and a generous spirit. She was an avid reader and a passionate traveler, always eager to learn and experience more of the world. Her love of history and her pride in Logan County were evident in her efforts to dedicate a historical marker commemorating the former Railroad YMCA and the Railroad’s important role in the county’s development. She was likewise an enthusiastic supporter of the Holland Theatre including the marquee restoration project, reflecting her appreciation for preserving the community’s cultural heritage.

She is survived by her children, Laird A. Lile of Naples, Florida; Laura (James Tafel) Lile of Franklin, Tennessee; and Linn (Richard Silliman) Lile Harson of Yellow Springs, Ohio. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Andrew T. Sparks of Findlay, Ohio; Carson D. (Sara) Smith of Cleveland, Ohio; Chloe N. (Dominic) Morrow of Columbus, Ohio; Langdon A. Lile and Linden Alise (“Allie”) Lile, both of Naples, Florida; Hannah M. (Brad) Shinevarre of Carleton, Michigan; Sarah (Stefan Barbic) Silliman of New York, New York; and Benjamin A. (Ellie) Silliman of Cincinnati, Ohio; and by her great-grandchildren, Archie Morrow, Norah Smith, Chloe Barbic, Evonne Barbic, and Lewis Silliman.

She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Melody Mason of Battle Creek, Michigan; Melissa (Mark) Lecy of Minneapolis, Minnesota; Jeanine (Jim) Joseph of Johnstown, Ohio; and Christopher Nicholl of Richmond, Virginia, as well as her cherished “local children,” Mick and Roni Lile.

Nancy will be remembered for her intellect, her warmth, her quiet strength, and her enduring commitment to family, education, and community.

A private Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.

Online Condolences may be expressed at www.jenningsfarley.com