Nova Lea McCroskey, of Fair Grove, Missouri, was born on October 8th, 1928, in Wiseman, Arkansas, to William and Joyce (Insell) Gault. She passed away peacefully on July 5th, 2026, at the age of 97.

Nova worked as a nurse’s aide at Cox North Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, until marrying the love of her life on February 14th, 1962. She and her husband built a beautiful life together, and in 1963 they welcomed their only son, David Bryan McCroskey. Nova devoted herself to being a loving wife, mother and homemaker.

The McCroskey’s made their home on a farm in Fair Grove, Missouri, where Nova found great joy in caring for a large garden, a cherry orchard, and her beautiful flowers. She treasured time spent with family, especially Sunday Dinners with her in laws, Earl (Jona) and Essie McCroskey.

Nova accepted Christ as her Savior at a young age and remained steadfast in her faith throughout her life. She attended First Baptist Church of Fair Grove, where she faithfully taught Sunday school. She also helped establish Community Baptist Church of Fair Grove, where she served faithfully for many years. Her love for the Lord was evident in the hymns she sang and the life she lived until her passing.

Nova was preceded in death by her husband F. David McCroskey; her son, David Bryan McCroskey; her parents, William and Joyce Gault; her siblings, William, Adrian, Willodean, Mary Ellen, Billy Vern and Pansy Joyce. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Terry McCroskey and sister-in-law Velma McCroskey and several nieces and nephews.

Nov a’s love kindness and faith will touch our hearts forever. May she rest in peace