Nancy (Wood) Keefe

Nancy (Wood) Keefe, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2024, in her hometown of Leominster, at the age of 86. She was born on March 13, 1938, daughter of the late Byron H. Wood, Sr. and the late Lillian E. (Ellis) Wood. Nancy is the wife of the John “Jack” Keefe, who predeceased her on May 18, 2023.

Nancy's journey began as a young woman working at Nickerson Drug Store, Leominster Hospital and owned Boston Fruit with her husband, Jack, where her warm smile and genuine care for others set the tone for her career. Her professional path was diverse, including roles at Merchants Bank, Barney’s Mobil, EB Kingman, Cedar Street Nursing Home, and within the Leominster Schools, where she touched many lives with her kindness and dedication. The opportunity to care for her granddaughter, Brittni, was one she couldn’t refuse. Nancy's commitment to her community was further exemplified through her work with Bingo nights at St. Cecilia's, St. Francis, the Elks, and the Knights of Columbus, where her laughter and energy were contagious.

A mother and Mimi, not only to her own children but to every child in the neighborhood (and her children’s friends and grandchildren’s friends), Nancy's heart knew no bounds. She is survived by her loving daughters, Sharon Kenward and her husband David, and Kathleen Keefe and her partner Evie Anderson. Her legacy continues through her many grandchildren, including Randi Keefe and Brittni Hussong, along with Brittni's husband Christopher; two great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Nancy was predeceased by her cherished grandson, Joshua Keefe, whose memory she held close to her heart. She was also predeceased by her brother, Barney Wood.

Nancy's zest for life was evident in her active involvement with the Montachusett Twirlers, the Emblem Club, and the Girl Scouts, cheerleading, and that spirit led her to be the cheerleader for everyone around her. Her love for travel took her on many adventures, especially to her beloved Hawaii, and she found joy in organizing bus trips for others to share in the excitement of discovery. Annual Cape Cod vacations and camping trips were among her favorite traditions, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Nancy was always there for everyone, offering a comforting word, a hearty meal, or a listening ear. She was the embodiment of a loving, kind, and generous soul, and her absence will be deeply felt by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Nancy's life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of community. She was a woman who not only raised her family but also uplifted her community, leaving a legacy of compassion and service that will continue to inspire those she has left behind.

As we bid farewell to Nancy, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a woman dearly loved. Her spirit, a radiant light in the lives of many, will continue to shine in the hearts of those she touched. Nancy's journey on earth may have concluded, but the impact of her love and kindness will resonate for generations to come.

She was lovingly cared for by her daughters, Shari and Kathy, and granddaughter, Brittni, who spent every evening by her side. Her companion, Shama Kahn from JK Sunshine Home Care who became an important part of her daily life and her care givers from Beacon Hospice, Rocky and Terry, who played Elvis songs and showered her with love and attention at every visit. Before her dementia took over a larger role in her life, she had Jordin Lee Bushnell from Better Home Health Care in her corner for many years becoming an “adopted” grandchild of both Nancy and her husband, Jack.

Funeral services are private under the direction of Richardson Funeral Home, 106 West St., Leominster. www.richardsonfuneralhome.net

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