Nancye was considered the founder of the Polk County Senior Games, an athletic organization for senior citizens modeled after the National Senior Games. A Lakeland resident since 1968, she dedicated her life to creating and supporting numerous community events. With the help of The Ledger, Polk County Leisure Services, the County Commission, and other local partners, she served as the organization’s first president. 

The inaugural Polk County Senior Games were held in 1992, featuring 777 competitors across 53 athletic events. Today, it remains the largest senior athletic event in the state of Florida. 

Throughout her life, Nancye also gave generously of her time to other causes. She worked as a teacher and school volunteer, served as the executive director of the Polk County Museum of Art, and founded Mayfaire by-the-Lake, a beloved arts and crafts festival that continues to bring significant revenue to Polk County. 

Nancye passed away at home on March 24, 2020.