Nancy Deeth

Nancy Watson Deeth, age 83, passed away January 9, 2025 at home after a long illness. She was born in Tupelo, Mississippi, on December 6, 1941 to the late Chester Davis (Pete) and Nancy Gertrude (Davidson) Watson. Nancy is survived by her husband of 58 years, John Deeth; daughter Amy (Michael) Christie; son Jeffrey; grandchildren, Kaitlin (Jake), Ryan and Tyler; sister Jill (Robert) Williams, aunt Avonelle Elliff, and uncle Johnny Davidson; nephew Kevin (Annette) Williams and children Garrett, Austin, Presley and Brody; niece Shannon (James) Henneke and children Hanna and Jake. Nancy's grandchildren were a source of immense joy and pride for her. She took great pleasure in watching them grow and excel, always offering her love and support. Nancy graduated in 1963 from Blue Mountain College in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, with a BA in music with pipe organ as her primary instrument. During college and after, she was organist at First Methodist Church in Tupelo where she and John were married in 1966. Nancy met John in 1965 while they were both working at the National Park Service Headquarters and Visitor Center for the Nachez Trace Parkway in Tupelo. Nancy was an administrative assistant to the Park Superintendent. John was there as a summer intern from Ohio State University's Landscape Architecture program, working in the design and planning section. They dated during his time there and married the next year. After marrying John, she moved to Columbus where he was finishing his studies at Ohio State University. She began a few years later playing organ and piano on a part-time basis at Overbrook Presbyterian Church where she, John, and family have been active members since 1969. She served as Associate Organist for many years, and in 2004 became full-time organist upon the retirement of Dr. Larry Rhoades, Minister of Music. She retired from Overbrook Church in 2022. She was a long-time member in The American Guild of Organists. Although playing the organ was a major part of her musical career, her first love was always the piano. She began piano lessons at age seven and continued throughout her high school years. During that time, at 12 years old, she began playing piano for worship services in a southern Baptist church In Tupelo. During the years of playing piano at southern Baptist churches, where both piano and organ are used in their services, she learned to improvise and embellish hymns and anthems to play something a little different from what was on the printed page. She applied this talent to all her music in her ensuing music and teaching careers. She often said that church piano and organ playing should espouse “Soul and Joy.” At the request of Overbrook church members and friends, she recorded a CD with favorite piano selections she had played for church service music and special programs. Nancy also taught private piano lessons in her home for 30 years. Her influence was not confined to her immediate surroundings. She and son Jeffrey have been involved in the Franklin County Board of Development Disabilities programs since his age of 18 months. Nancy's advocacy for individuals with disabilities brought about positive changes and increased awareness within the community. Her work with various boards and committees displayed her commitment to ensuring a better quality of life for those in need. She served as a member of the External Review Committee of the Abuse Registry for 5 years; member of the State Family Advisory Council; member of the Review Committee of applications of new providers for Franklin County until 2005, and served on the Board of Supportive Community Living, now Open Door, who provide services for son Jeffrey, for many years. Her tireless efforts were recognized and appreciated by many, reflecting her deep compassion and sense of responsibility. Nancy's legacy is one of unwavering dedication, kindness, and passion. She touched the lives of many through her music, teaching, and advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on her community. She will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Nancy’s family is grateful to Luminary Hospice, Columbus for their compassionate care for her at home. A memorial service will be held at 2 PM on Friday, February 21 at Overbrook Presbyterian Church, 4131 North High Street, Columbus, OH. The family will greet guests after the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in Nancy’s memory to the Memorial Fund at Overbrook Presbyterian Church (4131 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214) Inurnment will be in Union Cemetery Mausoleum - Chapel B, in Columbus.

Nancy Deeth

December 6, 1941 - January 9, 2025