We are heartbroken to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Nancie Sexton, who went home to be with
the Lord on April 12, 2025 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, wisdom, and quiet strength.
Born on January 23, 1935, in Hazleton, Pa., A graduate of West Hazleton High School Class of 1953 and
affectionately known by her classmates as "Irish" Nancie had stayed in touch throughout the years with many
of her fellow "Wildcats". and especially looked forward to the yearly Wildcat Roundup. She thoroughly enjoyed
every opportunity to gather with friends and family.
Nancie was a lifelong learner with an insatiable curiosity and a deep love for reading. Her home was filled with
books, and her mind was a garden of ideas, history, and stories she eagerly shared with others. She believed that
education was a lifelong journey, and she inspired those around her to grow, question, and seek knowledge. One
of her greatest passions was family genealogy and she spent countless hours on research to be able to pass on to
her family and future generations.
She was a devoted member of St Gabriel's Church and her strong commitment to her faith and church family
was greatly admired.
Nancie was equally committed to her community. Always looking for opportunities to be involved whether
organizing food drives, donating to the homeless and underprivileged, mentoring young people, or offering a
helping hand to a neighbor, she led with quiet generosity and a deep sense of purpose. Always willing to be
available when needed.
When she was living in Ohio, Nancie went on to have a career with AT&T that lasted from 1979-1994. She
loved going to work every day and cherished the friendships with her coworkers. She retired with many
"Perfect Attendance" awards during her time there.
She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Marjorie (Tempest) O’Donnell, siblings John, Marjorie, Mary,
baby Anna, Matilda, James, Patsy and Thomas.
She is survived by her brother Joseph O’Donnell, her five children Roxanne Howell, Flynn Sexton (Jean),
Shawn Sexton, Kelly Sexton, Casey Sexton (Kathy). She is also survived by 7 grandchildren, Patrick, Kim,
Kris, Cameron, Lauren, Ashley and Delaney, and 3 great grandchildren Amelia, Eloise and Bruno. She was an
aunt to many nieces and nephews and will be greatly missed by all.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday June 28 th at 10:00 AM at Annunciation Parish, Church of
St. Gabriel, Hazleton. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Drums.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the church from 9 AM to 10 AM prior to the Mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks for donations to be made to a favorite charity or have a tree planted in
her memory.
Her love, her laughter, her wisdom, and her unwavering belief in the goodness of people will never be forgotten.
Arrangements under the direction of the Joseph B. Conahan Funeral Home, Inc.
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to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Nancie (O'Donnell) Sexton, please visit our floral store.