Married to Max Schwartz for 41 years, until his death in 1997, Nancy was the adored mother of Laura, Paul, David, and Daniel, and proud grandmother of Clara, Leo, and Alexandra. She was a source of unconditional and boundless love for so many, including her son-in-law Ed Holden (Laura), daughter-in-law Steffie Schwartz (Paul), sister-in-law Helen Sherman, nephew Michael and niece Amy.
A native of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Nancy set her sights on New York City at an early age and moved there after graduating from Connecticut College. A passionate lover of the arts, especially opera, she attended numerous Ring cycles and juggled multiple Metropolitan Opera subscriptions, preferring the Family Circle for its superior acoustics and knowledgeable seatmates. Nancy volunteered with the League of Women Voters and candidates endorsed by Emily’s List to advance progressive politics and women’s rights. Her interest in politics began as an undergraduate at Connecticut College and continued through her Master’s degree at Columbia’s Teachers' College.
In the 1970’s she worked to elect candidates for local school boards in Queens, none of whom ever seemed to win. She loved living in Middle Village, Queens, and taking part in the cultural life of New York City, whether attending museums and concerts or exploring new neighborhoods and restaurants. Her long life was full and vibrant, marked by generosity, love, family, and friends, who gathered around her dining room table for holiday meals. How grateful we are to have had her in our lives for so long. She will live on in our hearts and inspire those fortunate enough to have known her.
A graveside service for Nancy will be held Thursday, June 13, 2024 from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM at Mount Lebanon Cemetery, 7800 Myrtle Ave, New York, NY 11385. Meet at the cemetery office at 1:00 PM to gather before the graveside service.
Donations in her memory can be made to Meals on Wheels, Queens, the League of Women Voters or other organizations feeding hungry New Yorkers or addressing women’s rights, including reproductive freedom.
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