Nancy Shoup

Nancy Gay Long Shoup, age 92, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. Born on September 21, 1932, in Moberly, Missouri, to Robert Ira Long Jr. and Helen Lavinia Sweet Long, Nancy's life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, community, and numerous organizations. Her father and two brothers were Presbyterian ministers, which deeply influenced her faith and values.

Nancy met the love of her life, Michael Shoup, at Grinnell College in Iowa. Their bond was unbreakable, and they celebrated 70 wonderful years of marriage. Their love story began when Mike heard Nancy singing on the radio at Grinnell College and knew he had to meet her. It was love at first sound and sight. At this early age, they eloped to the dismay of their parents to Houston, Texas where they enrolled at the University of Houston and resided in the Family Barracks.

Nancy's dedication to education was one of her passions in life. As President and Chairman of Reading Selections for Lifetime Learning, she inspired many to pursue knowledge and personal growth. Her involvement extended to the Assistance League, where she served as Treasurer, and the Independence Historical Society, where she was President, Board Member, and Historical Researcher. Nancy was also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and various Community Book Clubs.

In addition to her educational pursuits, Nancy had a deep appreciation for the arts. She was a Board Member for the Unity Theater where she was a passionate advocate. She supported the Boys and Girls Club and was a notable contributor to the Brenham Children's Chorus, where her love for music and community shone brightly. She also was a member of Best Ever Stitch and a writing group, where she expressed her creativity and shared her talents with others. Her commitment to education, the arts, and community service left a lasting impact on all who knew her as reflected with the honor of being named as Brenham Woman of the Year in 2011.

Nancy was attentive to her physical well-being, participating in activities such as playing golf, swimming, and walking. Showcasing her determination and spirit, she ran in the Tenneco Houston Marathon in January 1981 at the age of 49. She remained vibrant and socially active up to the last hour of her life, a testament to her lively spirit and love for those around her.

A devoted member of Brenham Presbyterian Church in Brenham, Texas, Nancy's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active participant in the church's choir, where her beautiful soprano voice often graced the congregation. Later in life, she was an enthusiastic participant in Friday Game Days, where she enjoyed the camaraderie and fun with her Presbyterian friends. Her dedication to her faith and community was evident in every aspect of her life.

Nancy was a prolific writer and a dedicated professional who worked in Houston ISD, Spring Branch ISD, and Brenham ISD for 30 years, utilizing her master's degree in Speech Pathology. Along with her career, she had a deep love for gardening, often filling her home with fresh bouquets of roses. Baking homemade birthday cakes for her family, decorated with flowers and greenery, was one of her cherished traditions. In addition to her professional and gardening pursuits, Nancy enjoyed scrapbooking, writing, and reading, which allowed her to express her creativity and share her love for stories and memories.

Nancy will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering commitment to her community, and her love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of service, faith, and love that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Nancy is survived by two brothers and a sister: Robert Long of Millcreek, WA., Sweet Young of Decorah, IA., and Jim Long of Aurora, Oregon. Also her children: Mike and Jean Shoup of Brenham, TX; David Shoup of Brenham, TX; Julie and Ken Baker of Chattanooga, TN; and Peter and Cheryl Shoup of San Antonio, TX. She is also survived by her grandchildren, who lovingly called her "Grandma": Kelly and Dr. Jared Anderson of College Station, TX; Randy and Hanna Shoup of Dunedin, New Zealand; Nick Shoup of Brenham, TX; Eric and Mandy Baker of Sydney, Australia; Jeff Baker of Denver, CO; Natalie Shoup of New York City, NY; Hannah Shoup of Boston, MA; and Lindsay Shoup of Quincy, MA. Her great-grandchildren, who affectionately called her "Nana," include JJ Anderson and Julia Anderson of College Station, TX, and Everett Baker and Bennett Baker of Sydney, Australia, who refer to her as Granny Nanny.

The family requests that donations be made to The Brenham Children's Chorus. P.O. box 2274, Brenham TX, Independence Historical Society, P.O. box 103, Brenham, TX., or Lifetime Learning, P.O. box 513, Brenham, TX. A visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm at Memorial Oaks Funeral Chapel. A small, private family memorial will be joyously celebrated in 2025.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 W. Main Street, Brenham, Texas. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com.