Nancy E. Porter

Nancy Edith Porter, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished member of our community, peacefully passed away on December 23, 2023, at the age of 93.

Born on April 7, 1930, in Buffalo, WY, Nancy was the daughter of the late Vere and Ada (Sams) Duncan. She grew up on the family ranch and developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature that would remain with her throughout her life. Nancy embraced the values of hard work, kindness, and compassion, traits that would shape her character and impact those fortunate enough to know her. She came to Wahoo in 1945 to attend Luther Academy with her sisters.

When her youngest son reached fifth grade, Nancy pursued a career as the librarian at North Ward Middle School where she was also involved with other duties such as helping to serve lunch. She found fulfillment and purpose in her work. Later, she worked at the courthouse as the Office Manager at the Saunders County School Office. She then served diligently as Office Manager at the Saunders County Highway Department where she served for more than twenty years. Her commitment to her roles at Saunders County was unwavering, and her co-workers held her in high regard for her professionalism and warm demeanor.

Nancy's true devotion, however, lied in her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. She married William Porter June 26, 1948 in Buffalo, Wyoming, and their union was blessed with love and companionship. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey, supporting one another through life's joys and challenges. Nancy's love for her family knew no bounds, and her children Grant, Bruce, Randall, and Patrick were the center of her universe. She took great pride in their accomplishments and found immense joy in being a grandmother to her grandchildren Carrie, Bryan, Andrew, Derek, and Corey and her 7 great-grandchildren. Nancy prepared lavish meals for her family at every holiday and throughout the year. There was always a great variety of dishes and none of the grandchildren ever left hungry. Nancy's legacy of warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love will forever shape the lives of those she leaves behind.

In her free time, Nancy enjoyed tending to her garden where she grew a variety of beautiful plants and flowers. She was a member of two extension clubs and the Mothers Club. She enjoyed coffee gatherings with her friends, and helped raise funds for various community activities. Nancy was active in Wahoo First United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School, was in the Evening Esthers and the United Methodist Women, and served on many church committees through the years. She helped with funeral lunches, wedding receptions, and other church dinners. She volunteered at the Saunders County Historical Society and was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Pythian Society. Before college football games were televised, Nancy spent Saturday afternoons listening to her beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers play and took detailed notes about each play of the game so she could remember them later.

Nancy was a remarkable lady whose personality blended elegance with folksiness, especially in her writing. Her genuine kindness and compassionate nature drew others to her, and her presence filled any room with warmth and love. As we mourn the loss of Nancy Edith Porter, we find solace in the memories we shared, the laughter we enjoyed, and the love she bestowed upon us. Her legacy will endure, inspiring us to be kinder, to value family, and to appreciate the simplicity and beauty of everyday moments.

Nancy is predeceased by her husband William Porter; son Grant Porter; sisters Bettye Dennison, Marianna Rockhold, Jennie “Jane” Imeson, and Veda Decolon. She is survived by her sons Bruce (Laurie) Porter of Scottsdale, AZ, Randall (Beth) Porter of Olancha, CA, Patrick (Connie) Porter of Omaha; grandchildren Carrie (Pat) Klaurens, Bryan (Lesley) Porter, Andrew Evans, Derek (Samantha) Porter, and Corey Porter. She will also be dearly missed by her extended family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Funeral services honoring Nancy's life will be held on Saturday, December 30 at 10:30 am at the First United Methodist Church, followed by a burial service at Sunrise Cemetery. The family kindly requests that any donations in Nancy's memory be made to First United Methodist Church or Saunders County Historical Society.

In memory of Nancy, let us take a moment to cherish the time we had with her and to remember the importance of love, kindness, and family in our own lives. May she find eternal peace and her memory be a blessing to us all.