Nancy K. (Cassidy) Stonebraker, 83, of Ellsworth, Kansas, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, in Ellsworth. Nancy was born on August 11, 1942, in Hutchinson, Kansas, to Lawrence and Myra Cassidy. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, community leader, and tireless advocate for individuals with disabilities. On October 29, 1960, she married the love of her life, David Stonebraker. Together they shared nearly 66 years of marriage, building a life centered on faith, family, and service to others.
Nancy was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters; and her beloved son Spencer Stonebraker.
She is survived by her husband David Stonebraker; her daughter Deb Gordon (Gregg) of Salina; her son Ken Stonebraker (Amy) of Salina; four grandchildren, Lindsay, Allison, Jessica, and Justin; seven cherished great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and dear friends.
Nancy devoted much of her professional life to Citizen’s State Bank, where she served as the drive-in manager before retiring in 2003. In addition to her banking career, Nancy owned and operated her own shoe store for seven years.
Inspired by her love for her son, Spencer, who had Down syndrome, Nancy made it her life’s mission to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Determined that Spencer and others like him would be able to live fulfilling lives within their own community, she led the effort to bring a Bethphage group home to Ellsworth. Through her vision and perseverance, that dream became a reality for Spencer and many other individuals with disabilities and their families.
Nancy was active in the local Association for Retarded Citizens, now known as the ARC, served as an advocate for individuals with disabilities throughout Ellsworth County, and was appointed as Vice Chair to the Kansas Governor’s Task Force on mental health reform in 1988. Through her faith at the Ellsworth Methodist Church, Nancy faithfully taught a Sunday school class for individuals with disabilities for approximately 15 years, sharing God’s love through compassion, patience, and acceptance.
Nancy’s dedication to her community was recognized in many ways. She served as president of the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce and was honored as Ellsworth’s Citizen of the Year in 1986. She was also recognized as the State of Kansas Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding service on behalf of people with disabilities.
Nancy will be remembered for her servant’s heart, steadfast faith, determination to make life better for others, and the unconditional love she gave to her family and everyone whose lives she touched. She believed every person had immeasurable worth and deserved to be treated with dignity, compassion, and love. Her kindness, generosity, and legacy of advocacy will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Visitation: 1-8 p.m., Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Parsons Funeral Home in Ellsworth. Family will greet visitors 6-8 p.m.
Funeral service: 11:00 a.m., Thursday, July 2, 2026 at Ellsworth Methodist Church with a luncheon following. A private family burial will take place at Ellsworth Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Ellsworth Methodist Church or ARC of Saline County, c/o, Parsons Funeral Home, PO Box 45, Ellsworth, KS 67439. Condolences can be left at parsonsfh.com.