Nena Lynn Mcgruder

Nena Lynn McGruder, born November 11, 1966, peacefully departed this life on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 4:45 a.m.

Nena was a woman of vibrant spirit and unmistakable personality. An avid reader and someone who truly danced to the beat of her own drum, she embraced life with authenticity and joy. She was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys, enjoyed good food, and cherished moments of laughter and fellowship with family and friends. Known for her honesty and boldness, Nena spoke her mind with courage and conviction, always standing firmly in her truth.

She graduated from Danville High School and was baptized at an early age at her church home, C.M.E. Carter Metropolitan Episcopal Church in Danville, Illinois, where her foundation of faith was nurtured.

Nena leaves to cherish her memory her loving brothers: Steve Crosby (Tiffany), Charles McGruder Jr. (Lynda) of Danville, Illinois, and Wesley McGruder of Fishers, Indiana. She also leaves her dear aunt, Madlean Tharp; aunt Sherri Sullivan; Uncle Terry Severado; nieces DaNaisha McGruder, Precious McGruder, Kianna Crosby, and Brianna Crosby; nephews Sean Crosby, Jordan Moreman, Marquis Crosby, Xavier McGruder, and Trenton McGruder; and her treasured great-niece, Kynsleigh Smith.

She is also lovingly remembered by her cousins Paula Collins, Denise Coleman (Antony), and Louis Tharp (Karen), along with her devoted best friends Treva Easley, Susie Lucas, and Marie Coleman.

Nena leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, love, strength, and service. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, Godchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. Her unconditional love and unforgettable spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles and Edna McGruder; her maternal grandparents, Roy Sr. and Addie Grace Dabney; her paternal grandparents, Theodore Severado and Garnetta Severado; her uncles Christie Brown, Huey Lee Brown, and Roy Dabney Jr.; her aunts Francis Stewart and Sheila Brown; and her cousins Hans Brown and Toni Tharp.
 

A celebration of life will commmenece at 12:00 Noon Wednesday March 4, 2026 at New Life Church of Faith 1419 N. Bowman Ave. Visitation will begin at 11:00 am until the time of the service. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nena Lynn Mcgruder, please visit our floral store.