Nancy Ann Gafford was born September 3, 1948, in Phoenix, Arizona, she peacefully walked into the arms of Jesus on October 14, 2024, in Gilbert, Arizona. Nancy married Jerry Gafford, the love of her life and best friend, on November 2, 1974, and was a proud mother to her only child, Sean Gafford.
Nancy cherished her family and held a special bond with her sister Chris, who was not only her sibling but also her best friend. A woman of deep faith, Nancy loved Jesus and embraced her Nazarene heritage with pride. Known for her gentle spirit, she loved fiercely and made a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to know her. She shared her musical talent by playing the flute in church for worship services; she especially loved playing alongside her sister.
Professionally, Nancy worked in the banking industry for about 30 years, followed by 11 years at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, where she developed several friendships over the years.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Anthony T. Mandese and Mary Louise Martin. Nancy is survived by her husband Jerry, her sister Chris (Jack), her son Sean (Shannon), and her beloved grandchildren Allison, Cody, Troy, and Leyton, along with several cherished nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be held on Saturday, October 19th, at 2 PM at Journey of Grace Church of the Nazarene, located at 955 E University Dr, Mesa, AZ 85203. An interment service will follow on October 22nd at 11 AM at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Our deepest sympathies go out to everyone in our family as well as everyone who had the privilege of meeting or knowing Aunt Nancy. We love her so much and will eternally miss her.
Jerry and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Nancy was the sweetest, kindest person who made everyone around her feel important and cared for. Prayers for all of you as you go through this time of grief. May God hold all of you in his arms and give you comfort.
I am so sorry for your loss. May God grant you peace and joy in your memories.
To Jerry and all the Family and Friends of Nancy,
My sincere deep sympathy goes out to all of everyone in the family and friends. A very sweet, kind, loving lady will be missed. May God’s Peace and Comfort be with you at this time.
I’m so sorry you all lost a beautiful woman I loved to hear her flute!! ???? that was many years ago but not forgotten!! From Pennsylvania
I’m very sorry for your loss, our hearts go out to you and your family. I would like to share a comforting scripture. Psalms 34:18,”Jehovah god is close to the brokenhearted; he saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
The world may never know another soul as kind and loving as Nancy, may she rest in paradise.
What a blessing to have known Nancy and her family. Our love & and prayers go out to all of you during this difficult time! God bless all of you! ❤️
Jerry and Sean, Dave and I send our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Nancy was a joy to know, kind-hearted, and extremely funny. She will be greatly missed.