Obituary: Nancy Schader

Nancy Schader, 75, died Monday, April 2, 2012, in Prescott, Ariz.

Nancy was born Norma Jean Becker on Sept. 9, 1936, in Omaha, Neb. She was adopted by Horace and Madge Williams of Lincoln, Neb., and became Nancy Ann Williams.

Nancy met her husband Larry at the Tucson Little Theater in 1959 while Larry was in rehearsal as Hansel in a performance of "Hansel and Gretel." It was love at first sight when Nancy, at the age of 23, turned to a mutual friend and said, "Who is that darling little boy playing Hansel?" Suzanne, the mutual friend, burst out in laughter, exclaiming "that darling little boy is 35 years old. He's 12 years older than you!" That darling boy proposed to Nancy on Valentine's Day, 1960, and, as they say, the rest is history!

After a life of raising their children and completing their careers, Nancy and Larry moved to Prescott from Phoenix to retire in 1997. Together they took their mutual love of the theater and became very involved with Prescott's Fine Arts Association Theater. Nancy created many sets over the last 15 years and was always available to lend a hand for anything that was needed. Having a background in the arts, she designed and painted sets, sewed costumes and even directed a few plays. There was a special place in her heart for children's plays and she never passed up a chance to be involved in one. Nancy also devoted much of her spare time to Sharlot Hall Museum and the Blue Rose Theater.

Nancy is survived by her two sons, Barry and Brian; their wives Janice and Madiha; and five grandchildren, Christine, Lindsey, Sabeel, Sophia and Amara.

An informal celebration of Nancy's life will be noon April 29, 2012, at Prescott Center for the Arts Theatre, 208 N. Marina St., Prescott. All are welcome.

Nancy will be taken to the National Memorial Cemetery in Phoenix to rest in peace next to her beloved husband of 45 years.

Always with a smile on her beautiful face, this devoted wife, mother, grandmother and friend will be missed by many. Rest in peace Nancy.

The family suggests contributions be made in Nancy's name to The Prescott Center for the Arts.

Information provided by survivors.