Nancy Wisneskey

Nancy Preston Wisneskey died peacefully in her New Bern home on Friday, January 23rd, attended by her loving children and dear friend Paula Urban. Nancy was an active member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of New Bern.

Born in 1941 in Newton, Massachusetts, Nancy was a graduate of Wheelock College and received a Master of Education from Connecticut College for Women. Nancy was an advocate for early childhood education, working with children in several states across the country for more than 40 years.

In addition to her work with children, Nancy created and managed a line of cross-stitch patterns called “Designs by Nanci.” Many of her original designs were inspired by her own children and featured them prominently engaged in activities including sailing and playing soccer; something that was unique to cross-stitch at that time. More recently, she knitted clothing for her grandchildren and her many friends.

Nancy is survived by her brother, William Preston, of New Hampshire, as well as by her children, Paul Wisneskey and Amy Race, their spouses Holly and Kevin, and their children, William, Katherine, Brayden, and Margaret. Beyond her 4 grandchildren, “Nana” was loved by family and friends of all ages. She enjoyed an active life, and was an annual participant in the New Bern “Bike MS” cycling event. Other talents included kayaking, pottery, sewing, and yoga, much of which she enjoyed with her special friend, Tom Robinson.

Memories of Nancy are welcome to her family. Memorial gifts may be made to “Bike MS” New Bern or Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of New Bern.