Nancy Ann McMurray Apel, 74, of Monroe, Louisiana, died on February 24, 2026. Born in Phoenix, Arizona, on August 23, 1951, Nancy lived a life defined by love, adaptability, and an ever-present, radiant joy.

On June 27, 1969, she married her beloved husband, Bill Apel. As a proud Air Force spouse, Nancy created a warm and welcoming home for her family wherever military life took them, navigating moves to New Jersey, Texas, Nebraska, and Japan. She dedicated her early years to staying at home and raising her two sons, Warren and Westley. She was the best mother imaginable, filling their days with care, reading them stories, and bonding over after-school snacks.

When her sons grew older, Nancy embarked on a remarkable second act. What began as a volunteer position at a local museum blossomed into a distinguished career. She became an expert in museum operations and eventually a Professional in Human Resources (PHR). A museum job opportunity eventually brought the family to Monroe, where Nancy later applied her HR expertise at several companies, ultimately retiring after 11 dedicated years at Standard Enterprises.

Nancy was a woman of many talents—a crafty artist with a true gift for sewing, cooking, crafting, and painting. She had a deep love for her dogs, especially her beloved Thor and the many dogs named Tammy. A devoted woman of faith, she also served her community as a deacon and an elder at New Iona Presbyterian Church. Above all else, Nancy will be remembered for her deep happiness; in every photograph and in every memory, she is always the one with the biggest, brightest smile.

She is survived by her younger sister, Iola; her loving husband of over 56 years, Bill; and her two sons, Warren and Westley.

A visitation will be held at New Iona Presbyterian Church in Monroe on March 3, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at the church on March 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A second service to celebrate her life and legacy will be held in Phoenix on March 25, 2026. 

For those wishing to send flowers, Nancy would have loved them to be purchased from her dear friend Martha Edwards at Brooks Florist on Desiard Street in Monroe.