NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- A Donelson woman was found dead Monday night after she fell into a fire that she set while doing work in her yard.

Metro police said a neighbor discovered Lillian Massey, 84, after her daughter asked the neighbor to check on her.

The victim was burning leaves at her home throughout much of the day on Monday, WSMV-TV in Nashville reported.

Neighbor Scott Clemente said very few days went by that he didn't see Massey tending to her nearly perfect yard.

"On New Year's Eve day, she was out here taking her leaves and putting them down here to fill in where they just took down a couple of trees," said Clemente.

Police said they believe Massey fell down an embankment into the fire. Her family said the wind might have blown flames, igniting her clothing and killing her.

Neighbor Alda Brown was shocked to hear the news but not surprised at what Massey was doing when she died.

"She was always outside. She loved raking. She kept an immaculate yard and immaculate house," said Brown.

Metro police said they do not believe any foul play was involved. Neighbors said it appeared to be a tragic accident.

The incident was not being investigated as suspicious.