Nancy Gail Braden, age 85, passed from this life on August 30th, 2024 at Baptist Health in Fort Smith, Arkansas. She was born January 27th, 1939 in Morrilton, Arkansas, to her beloved parents Earl and Elsie (Hudson) Braden. Nancy dedicated her life to teaching, achieving her masters degree in public education. She taught in various schools since 1970. After 35 years of service to her community, Nancy retired from her career as an educator. In her retirement, she found a second love of dog training. She trained many prized dogs, winning multiple competitions throughout the years. She loved all of her dogs dearly, most recently Bentley. Nancy deeply enjoyed attending her church, Community Bible Church, where she often volunteered, greeting guests as they arrived for services, preparing the gifts that are the Lord’s body and blood for communion and ensuring that the church bulletins were prepared and in order.  Nancy will be most remembered as a person who was feisty and ornery, but all could see she had a kind heart. Nancy is survived by her Cousin Mark Meador; his three children, Kristine Meador-Groemping and spouse David Groemping, Cameron Ashley Meador, and Ryan Anthony Meador and spouse Dr. Nicole Meador; and her beloved dog, Bentley. She is preceded in death by her parents; Earl and Elsie Braden. There will be a Memorial Service held at 9:00 AM Thursday, September 5th, 2024, at Lewis Funeral Chapel, located at 4817 Kelley Highway, Fort Smith, Arkansas 72904. All services are under the careful direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel.