Nancy Hayward Hile was born in Terre Haute on May 4, 1938, to the late Clark and Frances Hayward. She passed away on September 23, 2026, at the age of 88. A dedicated educator, Nancy taught biology for more than 35 years at Honey Creek Junior High and Terre Haute South High School, where she inspired generations of students with her knowledge, enthusiasm, and commitment to learning. At Honey Creek, in 1986 she was awarded a grant to develop the Honey Creek Nature Center, an outdoor laboratory where students in science and math classes could get hands on learning experiences in nature. She was a 1959 graduate of Indiana State University and remained a loyal Sycamore throughout her life. During her college years she was an active member of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and was honored as the 1958 National Girl of AOPi. Nancy married Jerry Hile on June 14, 1959; he survives her. She is also survived by her daughter Allison Spillman and her husband Ben, and her son Bart and his wife Michelle. She was a proud grandmother to Andrew and Taylor Hile of High Springs, Florida; Katie Hile and her fiancé Caleb Downing of Indianapolis; and Isaac, Christopher, and Joseph Spillman, all of Zionsville. Nancy was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and a faithful member of St. Mark United Church of Christ. Those who knew her remember her warmth, practical wisdom, quiet strength, and the steady presence she brought to family, friends, students, and community. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. A service of thanksgiving for her life will be on Monday, October 5, at 4:00, with a visitation time starting at 3:00. The service will be held at DeBaun Funeral Home on Springhill Road in Terre Haute. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Dobbs Park Nature Center in Terre Haute for the enhancement of their wild bird habitat. May her memory bring comfort and her spirit continue to inspire those who carry her in their hearts.