Nancy Mason

Nancy Nadine Mason, aged 71, of Champaign, Illinois, passed away on April 12, 2025, at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. A fearless trailblazer, devoted mother, and steadfast public servant, Nancy’s life was marked by deep purpose, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to education and safety.

Born on May 6, 1953, in Hammond, Indiana, Nancy was the daughter of Edward E. Tilton Sr. and Shirley N. Miller. Her family later relocated to Champaign-Urbana, where she graduated from Urbana High School in 1971. She went on to earn her associate degree in education from Parkland College, followed by both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Nancy began her professional journey in early childhood education, founding the Learning Tree Day Care Center. But she soon broke new ground—becoming the first woman in downstate Illinois to pass the firefighter physical agility test. She joined the University of Illinois Fire Department and went on to become the first female instructor at the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI).

From 1981 until her retirement in 2011, Nancy served in a variety of roles at the University of Illinois, including firefighter, EMT, and Program Director for Hazardous Materials and Terrorism. She led hazmat and counter-terrorism training across the country, worked closely with the Chicago Fire Department, and authored grant-funded curriculum that became nationally adopted. She also launched and led the State of Illinois Bioterrorism Program. Her career was marked by impact, innovation, and her refusal to let limitations stand in the way of progress.

But Nancy’s legacy is so much more than titles and accomplishments.

Throughout her life, Nancy touched many hearts and filled many roles: She was a provider—ensuring her loved ones had what they needed not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. She was a fighter—facing hardship with courage and clarity, and finding a way to keep going, even when the road was steep. She was outspoken—never afraid to say what needed to be said, even when it was hard to hear. She was a student—curious and always evolving. And she was a teacher—not just by profession, but by nature. She passed on wisdom, not from textbooks, but from living boldly. She never stopped growing, and she never stopped challenging those around her to do the same.

Whether you knew her as a mother, sister, grandmother, friend, or leader—Nancy left her mark. She left a legacy, and we will carry her with us always.

She is survived by her children: Kristina Kirby Davidson (Lori), Ashleigh Cadle (Josh), and JC Ducey (Chelsea); her grandchildren Ryan, Leo, Wyatt, Rhett, Beau, Baylor and Lorimer Eugene; and her brothers Edward Tilton Jr. (Cindy) and Joseph Tilton. She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Shirley and Edward.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nancy’s memory to Parkland College Women of Impact Scholarship.

A Note from the Family
Nancy loved music—it was one of her greatest joys and a constant presence in her life. Her family invites you to honor her memory by sharing a favorite story or moment you shared with Nancy, alongside a song that reminds you of her or one you knew she loved.

These memories and songs will be gathered into a playlist that will be gifted to her grandchildren, so they can carry her spirit with them through the music that meant so much to her and those who loved her.

Please share your memory and song here.

Thank you for helping us keep her light and laughter alive through the stories and songs we’ll never forget.

Service Details
Friday, May 30, 2025
Visitation: 10:00–11:00 AM
Memorial Service: 11:15 AM

North Sanctuary
Faith United Methodist Church
1719 S. Prospect, Champaign, IL 61820

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