Date Of Birth: June 16, 1976
Date Of Death: March 15, 2009
Nicole “Nici” Renae Ankney, 32, of Trafalgar, went to be with the Lord Sunday, March 15, 2009 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born in Franklin, IN on June 16, 1976, the daughter of Jo Ellen (Bailey) Adcock and Michael O’Brien . She was a teacher at Creekside Elementary School, a member of the Nineveh Christian Church, and an active member of Relay for Life. Nici was known for her big smile, outgoing personality and was a devoted wife and mother. Nici is survived by her beloved husband of 10 years, Chad Ankney; a daughter, Erica; two sons, Trevor and Nolan; her mother and step father, Jo Ellen and Steve Adcock; her father and stepmother, Michael and Cathy O’Brien; and brother and sister-in-law Thomas & Elena O’Brien; several nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation will be Wednesday, March 18 from 4:30 to 9:00 p.m. at Custer Baker Intermediate School, 101 W. State Rd 44, Franklin, IN. Funeral Service will be at Nineveh Christian Church, 1231 E. 775 S, Nineveh, IN at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19, with Pastor Tom Knight officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ankney Relief Fund, c/o Mutual Savings Bank, 7459 S. Nineveh Rd, Nineveh, IN 46164 or the Relay for Life, http://main.acsevents.org/goto/CancerStinks.Today we lost our sweet dear friend and God gained an Angel…so I know that one day we will see her again. CANCER STINKS!
Mark and Sharon DeHart family says
To all who knew and loved her:
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. May you find comfort in knowing she is indeed in a much better place. What a wonderful guardian angel she will be for all of you. May peace fill your hearts as Nici is laid to rest and joins her heavenly father.
With love,
Mark, Sha, Trey and Collin DeHart
Jeff gerholt says
Nicole will be missed.I know shes in a better place.
Ashley Romine says
Mrs. Ankney was one of my favorite teachers! I will always remember her talks about diving and the way she made me feel special! I will miss her. My family will be praying for her loved ones who remain. God Bless. Ashley
Sherry McClelland Shuler says
Chad – may God be with you and the children during this time.
Brad Brandi Rund Family says
Though you left us in body, your spirit never will. We will forever miss you, and love you.
Heather Owens says
Chad & Family,
I can’t begin to express how much my heart breaks for you and your children during this sad time. Although things don’t seem fair, God has a plan for Nici and her time here on earth was only the beginning. Although she is no longer with us, her love and memories will always remain. I pray you are able to find strength within your children to help them as well as yourself through this time. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Nici is now a beautiful angel…
Albert Emily says
Sorry for the lost of your daughter Nicole. Will keep everyone in our prayers. Take care & let God Be Your Guiding Light. Blesses In Christ, Al & Emily Cornell
Cristy Murray says
Mrs. Ankney was my son’s third grade teacher. Anytime I was in her classroom she always had a smile on her face. She was a beautiful woman. My heart goes out to her friends and family. I especially want to let her husband & children know that they are in our thoughts and prayers. Your wife & mother was a great lady, thank-you for sharing her with us.
Layman Leisa Logan Boyd says
Perhaps it was the way her beautiful smile lit up a room? Or maybe it was her glorious laughter that could penetrate even the hardest of hearts? So many extraordinary qualities wrapped up in one human being! She had to be an angel we were blessed to behold only for awhile but long enough to endear her to the hearts of everyone she came in contact with. Nici, your legacy of love, joy and kindness will be carried on by all those who were blessed to know you. Until we meet again on the other side, rest peacefully in the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Karielle DeHart says
Chad & Family;
We are so sorry to hear about your loss. It has been an honor to have known Nici and been able to spend time with you and the kids over the years. I know that times are going to be difficult for you but just remember how strong Nici was and live on through her memory. She was a one of a kind and will be very missed… God has taken the pain away and now we are all blessed to have her as an Angel!! We love you all!!
Paul, Karielle, Garrett & Rylan DeHart
Le Burgett says
JoEllen, Steve and family,
Words can never express the sorrow at a time as this. I pray you will feel the love your family and friends have for you during the passing days and months.
Draw strength from each hug.
Love, Le Burgett
Haley Schofield says
It seems like just yesterday I was in your class talking to you and making you laugh. You have been on my mind and in my prayers. I was just telling Mrs.Hart the one thing I remember the most about you is your smile. I remember the time when I said I need to talk to you and you got kind of worried when I was just going to tell you what I was doing that weekend. i will keep you in my heart for ever and will see you in heavan some day. I love you and will miss you!!!
Jose Melinda DeLaRosa says
Chad,
I don’t have the right words to say but you have my deepest sympathy during this very trying time. I pray that God would comfort you and your family during this time and see you through the next hours,days, months and years. I hope to be able to talk to you soon…Take care friend…
Nicole Eli Sophia Luca and Tennie Anderson says
Chad, words may not bring comfort now but as time moves on return to these encouraging words your dear friends and family have written to you and your children. Remember that you are not alone and it is okay to have a bad day and that asking for help is not a sign of failure or weakness, rather a sign of strength and determination. Turn to the Lord with your worries for He will lift you up. We love you and are there for you and your children always. I am sure Paul and Nici have become friends and together, along with those close to us that have also passed on to God, watch over us all. Stay strong.
joretta grass says
To Jo Ellen and Steve
I’m so sad for your loss. It’s not right to lose a child. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. I was my loss that I did know know your daughter, but if she was a teacher, mother, and wife, I know she was much loved. Hugs, Joretta
Alicia Parrott says
Please know that we are sorry for your loss. May family, friends, and strangers bring you comfort in your time of need.
Libby Davis says
Jo Ellen, Tommy & Chad: I am so so sorry to hear of Nici’s passing. You all are in my & my families thoughts and prayers during this sad & difficult time. She was an amazing person who touched alot of lives and will be missed by all!
Mike and Tonya Ankney says
Chad and family. I wish the words would come easy but not,We will miss Nic and her smile,but god as her and he is happy. WE LOVE YOU
Katie Lawson family says
Chad, Tommy, and family,
Words fail me. I wish there was something I could say to make you all feel better. Nici was a great person, and the way she lived her life is an inspiration to us all. I pray that you all have the strength and courage to get through this sad time. She was a great mom, and her love will live on through her children. She will be sadly missed, and forever loved. You are all in our prayers. May God bless you all with comfort and peace.
Rachel Haynes says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Nici and I were sorority sisters at Ball State. I’m so saddened by your loss. You will all be in my prayers. Nici was such a wonderful person!
Sincerely,
Rachel Walker Haynes
Phi Mu
Jeanna Thomas says
I will always remember Nici as the sister I never had. She was my best friend through school and I will always love her. She was very special and knew how to make me laugh! May God give you comfort and strength to carry on.
Robin Darland says
Joellen,Steve, Tommy, Chad,
As I set here trying to find the words to express my saddness the tears roll down my cheeks. All I can say is that you all are in my prayers and thoughts. Life is never fair. We take what we are given and make the very best of it. Nici blest many people with her smile and laugh. I haven’t seen Nici in a few years. But the last time was at a baby shower. A day of joy & happiness. That’s the memory that I’ll keep in my mind. Joellen I wish I was there to give you a big hug and take your pain away. Just one day at a time is the only way. See Nici in the eyes & smile of her children. You know she will always be there. I’ll see you soon. Much love Robin
Brandy Huffman says
Mrs. Ankney – – you are going to be deeply missed by all who knew you and by all you touched!!! But as I explained to Sierra, You are no longer in Pain, your suffering is over and your purpose full-filled. To us the Lord took you home too soon, but to the Lord he recieved you in the Nic of time. We know you will forever being watching over your family and will always be in the hearts of those you touched in your short time here with us. You are forever loved and will never be forgotten!
Shelly Weber and Family says
Words cannot even begin to express the sadness we feel for you all. Chad, I pray that God provides you and your family peace and comfort in the days ahead. God bless you!
Dian Terry Ankney says
Chad you will need the strength of a lion to complete the task before you – but you have that – and the heart to match! God has plans for you that you cannot see yet – stay strong and do not be ashamed to ask for help – we are all here for you and those beautiful children.
JoEllen, we know the sorrow of losing a child – it defies explaination. It is not something you “get over” so don’t expect too. Focus on the wonderful women Nici was and the gift she left behind in those 3 kids. Believe me, the kids are the living gift she gave – I would give up anything for mine. We love you all!
John Shelly Kids says
There are no words that can express how much Nici will be missed. We are all very fortunate to have been able to spend time with her and her wonderful family. We know you will miss her terribly but always remember she is with you in your heart and no one can take away the wonderful memories you have. God always has a plan for everyone and never gives anyone more than they can handle. You are all strong and we will all get through this we just have to lean on each other for support. You are not alone we will always be here for you. Nici is watching over us all with that beautiful smile on her face. God always takes the best and Nici was by far the best daughter,wife, mother, sister, and friend that any one of us could ever ask for. We love you all.
Nici, May you rest in peace with no more pain. You will be missed deeply but you will never be forgotten. We love you.
God Bless, John, Shelly, and Kids
Gretchen and Aaron Dennis and Family says
We are so sorry for your loss. Chad, you and your children are in our prayers. Take strength in the many wonderful memories you have of Nici.
Charlana Fenwick says
Nici looks just like her Mom. So very sorry for your precious loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you JoEllen & Steve and Family.
Your friend,
Charlana
Donna Vandivier Daugherty says
Chad and family,
There are no words to say how sorry we are. Nici was in our hearts and prayers everyday. We admired her courage and strength. She has touched our lives with her great faith. She was indeed a angel here are earth. God has blessed each of us who had the chance to know her. God truely takes the best.
Please know that we are here for you, what ever you need.
Love,
Donna and Chuck
Donna L Von Schriltz says
Dearest JoEllen,Chad and family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Your lives are forever changed without your dear sweet Nici. Just know that she is in the arms of Jesus today. Joey, I am always here for you.
In Him,
Donna
Sara says
Wow Nici… it is hard to believe that this day has come. We talked about doing so many things. It just wont be the same without you. I know that God saw you getting tired so he whispered “Come with Me” Although I am filled with sadness that you are gone I am thankful to know you are the angel watching over my family. God only takes the best!! I love you!
Ivan D Lancaster says
You have my prayers and sympathy. You have been in my prayers and those of Trafalgar Christian Church for quite some time. We are grateful for all the Perrys have done for you.
Sincerely,
Ivan Lancaster of Trafalgar
nancy campbell says
We are so sorry for your great loss Bruce and Nancy Campbell
Andrew Tiffany and Cadence Ankney says
I have no other words except, Nici we will miss you so very much. To Chad and the kids, we love you and will continue to be there for you.
Andrew Tiffany and Cadence Ankney says
I have no other words exept, Nici we will miss you so very much. To Chad and the kids, we love you and will continue to be there for you.
Jackie Bockover says
Nici was a real great wife and mother. My family is praying for Chad,the kids, and all of her real close friends.
Michell says
Mrs. Ankney was my daughter’s(Jazmin C.) favorite teachers! I remember meeting and talking to her she was a wonderful teacher. We will miss her. My family will be praying for her loved ones. God Bless!
Marcella OBrienBassett says
Nici will always be remembered by her loving smile, her great personality, her love of life. The first time I saw her, I knew she would grow to be a very special person. I pray that Chad, and the children will continue through life remembering the wonderful times they were able to share with her. May God bless all of you, and may all of you meet in heaven some day. God Bless!
Sam Hollis says
Although I never was fortunate enough to have Mrs. Ankney as a teacher, I had the chance to talk to her on multiple occasions. We will truly miss her.
The Jennett Family says
Chad and kids,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Even though we didn’t get the opportunity to get to know Nici very well, you can tell that she was a loving wife and mother. Always cheering the kids on at the ball games.
Please let us know if you need anything at all. We will always be here for you.
Scott Ronda Ankney says
There are no words – just know that you are loved.
Mary Gent says
Let the sunshine be a reminder of what Nici brought to us. We will miss her. M
Julie Clark says
Chad, Erica, Trevor, Nolan & family & friends of Nici –
Nici will be missed very much, however, God does have a plan for everyone and I do believe God brought the 2 of your hearts together at such a young age so you could live a life together and be able to have the 3 beautiful children that you have. God only will give you as much as you can handle & Chad he has put a lot on your plate at this time but try to stay strong and raise those kids to be as great as their parents. Nici was a person that always smiled and one of the few people I know that treated everyone the same and with respect and made everyone feel welcome. Nici was a beautiful person inside & out and God has a wonderful Angel by his side watching over all of us now. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Eric & Julie Clark
Walter Mariann Legan says
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our hearts go to you and your family. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Cole Miller says
She was nice and always smiled.It was a pleasure to be her student.
Tanya Schofield Hawkins says
My daughter Haley had Mrs. Ankney the year she was diagnosed with cancer. I remember having “the talk” with Haley and trying to explain what it was and what it could do. We watched Mrs. Ankney put up a brave and courageous fight and still love her class. I think God puts us in a place and time for a reason and little did we know but the following year, Haley would have to watch me, her own mom fight cancer. Even though Mrs. Ankney was not Haley’s teacher any longer, she still took the time to find her and make sure she was okay…even though she was fighting her own fight. I don’t think she had any idea how much her kindness meant to Haley during that time. It just shows that even during the toughest time in her life, she was still willing and able to give to someone else. Her life was too short but have no doubt that during that time, she touched my daughter in a very special way. We will continue to pray for your family, that God will give you the grace to endure the days ahead. Find comfort in the peace of knowing that today, Mrs. Ankney is with our Lord and Savior in a place where cancer no longer exist.
Mike Carla Matt and Kevin Housand says
Chad, Joellen, Steve, and family;
So sorry to hear about Nici. It is not easy to lose someone and especially someone so young. We often remember the times we had in I.C. basketball. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Alex Bensheimer says
Mrs.Ankney we all miss you alot,I remember when you were in my moms office and i did the eye of the tiger dance.Haha that was a great memory.When i heard you had melanomaI thought it was going to go away somtimes it douse,I really wasnt thinking you could die of that kind of cancer. I miss u and you were the nicest person i ever knew really besides mrs.Hickey and my mom ahah
Alex Bensheimer says
Mrs.Ankney we all miss you alot,I remember when you were in my moms office and i did the eye of the tiger dance.Haha that was a great memory.When i heard you had melanomaI thought it was going to go away somtimes it douse,I really wasnt thinking you could die of that kind of cancer. I miss u and you were the nicest person i ever knew really besides mrs.Hickey and my mom ahah
Anthony Nichole Teylor Blake Rains says
We are so terribly sorry for your loss. All of these entries are so true, Nici was always smiling, always so happy. Thank the Lord for the time we were all able to enjoy and know her. Much Love…
Chad Fowler says
I have known Nici and Chad for a long time. My heart goes out to the Ankney’s as Nici will be deeply missed.
Jennifer NyeBlackburn says
My thoughts and prayers are with you. May the Lord comfort you as only He can.
Treva Benjamin says
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Nicole was obviously a wonderful person. I didn’t know her but I wanted to express my condolences- May God give you peace during this difficult time. Your family will be in my prayers.
Danny Jessica Limp says
May God, family and friends comfort you and your family at this difficult time. If you need anything don’t hesitate to let us know.
Johanna Martindale says
Jo Ellen,
I am so sorry for your loss I want you to know your in my prayers. Loosing Nici is a great loss for you but you hang in there and remember all the good times you have shared with her. And those wonderful grandchildren, enjoy them each and every day because that is Nici’s living memeory to you all. God Bless all of you.
Tom and Becki Linville says
Chad and Family,
May the Lord be with you during your time of loss. We did not know Nici that well but we feel the loss nonetheless since she was our sister in Christ at Nineveh Christian Church. May the Lord hold you and your family in his arms and give you strenth.
May the Lord bless you and your family.
The Linville’s (Nineveh Christian Church Family) Indianapolis
Erin Housand McCrory says
I am was so sad to hear about Nici. Chad, you and your kids are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jessica says
I am so sorry for your loss. Your wife and family have been in my thoughts and prayers for months. I now pray that God will carry each of you through this unbearable time. Take each day as it comes and hold on to your babies and the wonderful memories you all have shared together.
Jason and Marri Hampton says
Chad your family is in our prayers! May the love of Christ be with you!
Christa Giger says
Chad I am sorry for the loss of your wife and mother of your three beautiful children. Times maybe tough but God has a plan for your family. Nici was a good friend to everyone she knew she will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Doug Reusser says
Chad-
No words can express how sorry I was to hear about your wife. You, and your family are in my prayers.
Judy yarnell says
I met Nici when she was student-teaching at Creekside. Over the next six years, I watched her blossom into an amazing third grade teacher. She came up with fun learning activities for her students; I remember videotaping one of her classroom plays and it was incredible! She had a smile that lit up a room and that soft voice – the voice of an angel – that could immediately put a child’s mind at ease. She will be missed by all who knew her, but she will live on in the many happy memories that remain with each of us. My prayers are with her family.
Kate Girdley Taylor says
It has been said that your work is a portriat of yourself…what a loving painting she made.
Eric Kim Taylor and Family says
There are no words to express how truly sorry we are for your loss. I can tell you though that Nici has taught our family to live each day like it is your last. She has taught us to embrace each moment and each person in our lives. We will miss Nici, but always remember her.
Don and Jan Goldhorn says
Dear Chad and Family: We are close friends of Mike and Cathy’s and are living in Guam. We met Nici many years ago when she visited Guam. We are so sorry to hear about her passing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family. Your grief is felt by so many people.
Christy Reese Vavra says
I cannot begin to express how I felt to hear of Nici’s passing. It just broke my heart. I spend many a Sat. babysitting Nici and Tommy. She was just a beautiful little girl- full of life. And of course Chad and his family will always be dear to my heart. The Ankney family was a big part of my childhood. Please accept my deepest condolences. You are always in thoughts and prayers. I’m truly thankful to have known her and her family. She will be missed.
Jeff Keli Ankney Family says
My favorite memory of Nici was when she told me she was pregnant with Nolan. I obviously wasn’t catching on to what she was telling me and she made fun of me forever!! 🙂