Nancy L. DeSmet, 81, of Moline, IL, died Thursday, April 12, 2012, at Trinity Medical Center in Rock Island, IL.

Per her wishes, cremation rites will be accorded. A Graveside Service will be held Tuesday, April 17th, at 11:00 a.m., at National Cemetery on Arsenal Island in Rock Island. Friends and family may gather at 10:30 a.m., at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline, for a procession to the cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to Animal Aid Humane Society, 239 - 50th Street, Moline, IL 61265.

Nancy L. Ledford was born in Moline on December 5, 1930, to Leslie and Ruby (Johnson) Ledford. On September 3, 1955, in East Moline, IL, she married Maurice D. DeSmet, who preceded her in death on September 11, 1998.

She was a homemaker, and was formerly employed as a bartender at the former Quad-City Downs. She enjoyed gardening, reading, the Chicago Cubs, and she loved animals and the Rock River.

Survivors include: sons: William DeSmet, and Larry (Julie Rumler) DeSmet, all of Moline; daughter: Cathy (Duncan) DeSmet-Harrington of Denver, CO; sister: Betty Palmgren of Florida; brother: Willis (MaryAnn) Ledford of South Carolina; grandchildren: Amy (Brandon) Vittitow; and Wayne, Devon, and Morgan DeSmet; and great-grandchildren: Alexis, Brinlee, and Chyler Vittitow.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

"Instead of sending flowers to me, send flowers to someone you love who is alive."