Ethel Nan Pitts January 31, 1926 - November 2, 2024

Ethel Nan Hensley, age 98, of Ozark, Missouri passed away Saturday, November 2, 2024 in Ozark Riverview Manor. She was fondly known as “Nan”, was born January 31, 1926 in Beatrice, Nebraska, the daughter of Charles Stewart Hensley and Margret Appleget – Hensley- Cox.

Nan’s early years were marked by her strong work ethic and adventurous spirit. After high school, she moved to Topeka, Kansas, where she worked for the telephone company. During World War II, she relocated to Wichita, Kansas, to work for Boeing, where she met her husband, Leo. Later, she took a position with the Santa Fe Railroad as a collector, retiring from there in 1981.

In retirement, Nan and Leo moved to a 228-acre farm in Chadwick, Missouri, where she continued to find fulfillment in work. She took positions with the Christian County Prosecuting Attorney and later with the County Clerk and Recorder, working well into her 80s before fully retiring.

Nan was preceded in death by her husband, Leo H. Pitts; her parents; and her three siblings, Charles, Barbara, and Earle. She is survived by her loving family, including her granddaughter, Angela K. Guynn of Billings, Missouri; her great-granddaughter Holly K. Orchard of Nixa, Missouri; and her two cherished great-great-grandchildren, Hunter Leo Rock and Eden Elexis Rock, also of Nixa. Nan is also remembered by her daughter, Kathryn M. Chorn.

Nan treasured her family deeply and held a special bond with her great-granddaughter Holly. In her later years, her heart was filled with joy for her two great-great-grandchildren, Hunter and Eden.

Known for her private nature, Nan requested no service or memorial. In the future, she will return to her hometown of Beatrice, Nebraska, where her memory will forever be cherished by her family and loved ones. Nan’s wishes for cremation were entrusted to Barnes Family Funeral Home, Ozark, Missouri. Online condolences may be shared at www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com.