Nancy Lou Yowell 84, of St. Joseph, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 6, 2025. Born on November 6, 1940 in Mound City, Missouri to the late Mildred (Smith) Diggs and Estell Diggs. Nancy lived a life full of love and dedication.
On April 13, 1963 she married Albert Franklin Yowell, and together they raised two children: Brenda (Roger) Baker of St. Joseph, Missouri, and Todd (Ann) Yowell of Thailand. Nancy was a devoted grandmother to Dathan (Marissa) Pettis of St. Joseph and Cayleigh (Kyle) Pettis-Kelly of Kansas City, and a proud great-grandmother to Cayco Pettis.
Nancy worked as a Band Tacker at Stetson Hats for over 30 years, where she formed lifelong friendships. She was known for her playful and competitive spirit, excelling as a champion dart thrower, and enjoying the challenge of large jigsaw puzzles.
While more mobile, Nancy attended Evolution United Methodist Church in St. Joseph, cherishing her community there. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Albert; her parents; and siblings Carrol Smith, Sheldon Diggs, Kenneth Diggs, Glenn Diggs, and Alice Stegall. She is survived by her brother, Larry Diggs, her children and their spouses, her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Nancy will be remembered for her loving heart, sharp sense of humor, resilience, and the deep connections she made with those around her. She will be greatly missed and forever loved.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 5:00 PM on Friday, June 20, 2025, at Rupp Funeral Home.
