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Nancy Sprague Obituary

Nancy Louise Sprague

Nancy Louise Sprague, 85, of LaGrange, IL, and daughter of Kenneth and Grace Holmes (both deceased and formerly of Western Springs). Nancy was, for 62 years, the beloved wife of Arthur W. (Bill) Sprague, Jr. Loving mother of Arthur William, (Bill) Sprague, III (of Cincinnati), and Scotland Lee Sprague (of Atlanta). Devoted grandmother of Andrew, Kenneth, and Jacqueline Sprague of Galesburg, or North Riverside, IL.

Nancy's respiratory problems of some five years were never effectively eliminated and they prevented her from mobility and caused her great pain. Her son, Bill, and her husband were with her at the end. Nancy held a BA from the University of Michigan, and a Master's degree from Northwestern University, which led to a career of 24 years teaching English at Lyons Township High School, her alma mater. It was she who was largely responsible for structuring the first American Studies course and teaching the course for over twenty years, along with her husband who taught US history to the same students.

In lieu of flowers, please help those in need.

Nancy wanted no service. However, perhaps in the not too distant future, something may be done. Her funeral is open to the family present. Arrangements are entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 708/352-6500.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Suburban Life Publications on Jul. 2, 2020.

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4 Entries

Laurie Koshgarian

July 17, 2020

Mrs. and Dr. Sprague were a true inspiration to me, as I believe they were to many of my classmates in the 1976-1977 American Studies class. That class was truly memorable. I am still friends with many of the students that were in the class, mostly because the Spragues made us feel like one big family. I will never forget the day Mrs. Sprague came into class wearing a clown outfit, or the play we performed - Our Town. I had one line of about five words, and she made me feel like I had been the primary actor! I learned so much from both Dr. and Mrs. Sprague - their passion for learning and remaining curious throughout one's life.
I have never forgotten them and was always so happy to see them once in a great while around LaGrange or near their house on Park Avenue. I was truly saddened to hear that Mrs. Sprague had passed. But, her energy and love of life and learning will always remain within me. Thank you, Mrs. Sprague, for that. You were truly a role model to me.

Catherine Ross

July 4, 2020

Dear Dr. Sprague and family,

I will never forget the experience of taking American Studies and British Empire taught by you and Nancy. The books we read, discussions we had and learning the historical perspective simultaneously was an incredible learning opportunity. Acting in the Skin of our Teeth was particularly memorable since it brought the play to life as a visual medium. My condolences to you and your family as Mrs. Sprague was a great teacher and an incredible human being.

Sincerely,

Catherine Ross class of 90

Melanie Muench-Day

July 2, 2020

I am so very sorry for your loss. Nancy was a wonderful teacher.

Tricia M Holgren

July 2, 2020

Dr. Sprague and Family:
My sincere condolences for your loss. Mrs. Sprague was one of my favorite teachers and her legacy will live on in those she taught. As I am sure you know, when the two of you were teaching, American Studies was legendary at LT: a class people talked about taking from the first moment they walked through the doors until Junior year, with Senior year filled with memories. I vividly remember sitting in European History my senior year and still being able to hear Mrs. Spragues distinctive laugh through the wall and we all knew the exact day she read the (in)famous Vardaman Chapter of As I Lay Dying.
All of that aside, what I have always carried with me is the example the two of you provided of a an incredible marriage. You worked together and showed students that adults could do that, but could also laugh together, so agree with each other, roll their eyes at each other through walls and when in the same room, but continue to love and respect each other. This was the most valuable lesson I learned from you both.
May your love and the years you shared bring you peace despite your loss.
Tricia Morman Holgren
Class of 1990 (American Studies 1988-1989)

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