Nancy L. Baily Stankus
Nancy L. Baily Stankus, 86, of Nashua, passed away peacefully at home with her beloved husband, Frank, by her side. She leaves behind a life rich in family, friendship, and adventure.
The daughter of Geraldine and William Baily, Nancy was raised by her grandparents, Ruth and Frank Baily. There, on their farm in southwestern Pennsylvania, entertainment meant counting cars from the porch swing, homework was done by gaslight, and chores included feeding chickens, milking cows, and stomping hay. Yellow daisies bloomed around the outhouse. Those simple beginnings shaped a woman who embraced life with curiosity, resilience, and a wonderful sense of adventure.
A graduate of Whiteley Elementary in Kirby, Central High School in Waynesburg, and Morgantown Business College, Nancy began her career in the Guidance Department at West Virginia University’s College of Education. There, professors became like family and inspired her through their work preparing future educators. She devoted her career to supporting educators and enhancing student learning through professional development initiatives for the Nashua and Goffstown school districts.
It was at WVU that Nancy met Frank, the love of her life. Together, they built a family and embraced wherever their journey took them. As an Army wife, Nancy approached each move with warmth, curiosity, and resilience. She made a home wherever they landed, built lasting friendships, and helped create a welcoming community for other military families as an active leader of the Officers’ Wives’ Club. Her natural gift for making friends stayed with her wherever she went.
In retirement, Nancy continued exploring the world, enjoying European and Caribbean cruises and RVing around the US. Yet through every adventure, her greatest joy remained the people she loved.
Nancy never forgot a birthday or missed a chance to remind those she loved that they mattered. Her voice, her laughter, and her caring presence brought comfort and joy to so many and will be deeply missed.
She is survived by her husband, Frank Stankus; children Betsey (Marc) Kippen and Greg (Jessica) Stankus; grandchildren Natalie, Allison, and Alex Stankus; sister Jane (Jon) Davisson; brother Steve (Donna) Keener; and brother- and sister-in-law Paul and Sheila Stankus. She is also survived by a large and loving extended family.
A visitation will be held Saturday, October 3rd from 4-5 pm at Farwell Funeral Home, 18 Lock Street in Nashua. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.farwellfuneralservice.com