Nancy Hartsough

Nancy Jean Hartsough passed away peacefully at home on November 14, from the effects of cancer. She was surrounded by an outpouring of love and care from all of her friends and family. She was born to John (Jack) and Gloria Nelson in Sacramento and, with the exception of a short time in Edgewood, California, lived there until beginning her studies at UC Davis, where she received her bachelors degree in child development in 1974. Nancy played softball beginning in elementary school, culminating in four years as the primary pitcher for the UC Davis squad, at that time a club team. She went unbeaten in her junior year. While a sophomore at Davis, she met Bruce Hartsough; they were married in 1975 and they celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary earlier this year. Nancy and Bruce moved to Washington, Oklahoma and then Oregon while Bruce was employed in the forest industry. They returned to Davis in 1980 and resided there until Nancys passing, with the exception of a year in Auburn, Alabama, and another in Rotorua, New Zealand. Nancy devoted much of her time to the activities of her three daughters, serving as a leader or assistant for each of their Brownie, Girl and Explorer Scout groups, and participating in many school-related activities at Davis Parent Nursery School through Davis High School. When she became a grandmother in 2006, she then devoted much time and love to her grandchildrens care. After her children completed elementary school, Nancy joined UC Davis Extension as a part-time programmer, where she assisted with many courses in the agricultural sciences. She was a devout convert to the Catholic Church, helping guide others as a sponsor in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults for many years. She enjoyed Bible study, reading and especially her book club companions. She loved to travel, and visited Austria, Canada, England, Fiji, France, Germany, Italy, Scotland and Spain in addition to New Zealand. She always looked forward to an annual summer stay with her extended family at Lake Tahoe. Nancys mother passed away in 2006. Nancy is survived by her father and her brother, Don, both of Woodland; her husband of 35 years; her daughters Elena (Brian Burns, Sacramento), Kieran (Brooklyn) and Laura (San Diego); and grandchildren Halden and Laika Burns-Hartsough. A funeral mass followed by a reception will be held at St. James Church, 1275 B St. in Davis on Saturday, November 20. The mass will begin at 10 AM.

To plant memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Nancy Hartsough, please visit our flower store.

Guestbook

Add Photo Light a Candle

Dear Bruce and family, Once again, Sharon & I express our deep sorrow for your loss. I am more than ever conscious that it was a privilege to have been a groomsman in your wedding of over 35 years ago. I learned more about Nancy from the obituary published on this site, her love of softball and her success on the Davis team, in addition to her other life's achievements. We didn't talk much on matters of faith during my last visit, but I realize now that we had more in common that I was aware. Some comfort may be found in these words: John 11:25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Job 19:25 I know that my redeemer lives. 19:27 I will see him for myself. Sincerely, Doug & Sharon

Doug & Sharon Barnett Nov 27 2010 12:00 AM

I am so sorry for your loss. I knew Nancy through RCIA--she and I both served as sponsors a few years ago...and I am a young mohter with three girls--I always looked up to Nancy as a person of great grace and courage. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Jennifer Harrison

Jennifer Harrison Nov 22 2010 12:00 AM

My deepest sympathies to Bruce and family. I worked with Nancy as a Field Rep at the University Extension for 6 years. She was an asset to the job as she was so reliable and such a hard worker. I enjoyed our chats together about her family and her travels and her work in the church. We laughed alot and prayed for each other. Nancy will definitely be missed. I am so blessed to have known her and and to have worked with her. I will see her in Heaven. With sympathy, Penny Stockdale

Penny Stockdale Nov 22 2010 12:00 AM

Dear Bruce,Elena, Brian, Kieran, Laura, Halden, and Laika, We are so sad about Nancy's passing. We send lots of thoughts and prayers your way. Love, Gabriel, Andrea, Izabella, and Zita

Gabriel Loiacono Nov 20 2010 12:00 AM

Hugs to family and friends during this brief time of mourning her passing and forever time of celebrating Nancy's life. Jeanne Jones

jeanne jones Nov 19 2010 12:00 AM

Bruce and Laura and the rest of the Hartsough family, I am so sorry to hear about Nancy. I remember when she would stop by our soccer practices and would come for Thanksgiving and Xmas soccer, it was so much fun! I wish you the best during these tough times. With love, D

Danielle Crain Nov 19 2010 12:00 AM

Dear Laura ~ I was so sad reading your mom's obituary. I miss seeing you on campus, and particularly wish you were here now so I could give you a hug and kiss. Know that I'm keeping you in my heart.

Sally Ryen Nov 18 2010 12:00 AM

Dear Bruce, Laura, Kieran, and Elena: You are in our thoughts and prayers. Nancy was a wonderful, sweet, and loving person, who will be greatly missed and never forgotten. The musical memories that she left are comforting reminders of our precious Nancy. Love, The Meares' Family

Ann and Claude Meares Nov 18 2010 12:00 AM

Comforting are the many years shared together, your children and their children. Life goes on, even though saddened by an early loss. My good thoughts and a modicum of strength go to you, Bruce. Your friend, Michael

Michael Goodman Nov 18 2010 12:00 AM

Bruce, Sue and I were so sorry to hear the news about Nancy. She was such a lovely person. We have fond memories of the events we attended together at Rotary. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult period.

Allan Kurki Nov 17 2010 12:00 AM

Show More Entries