Nancy Florence Hermansdorfer

Nancy Florence (Merritt) Hermansdorfer, 79, a radiant embodiment of love, kindness, and grace, peacefully passed away at her home on Saturday, March 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 14, 1944, she was the cherished daughter of the late Eleanor and William Merritt.

Nancy's life was a testament to compassion and selflessness. She received her education from the Institute of Notre Dame in Baltimore and pursued her passion for nursing, graduating as a registered nurse from Mercy Medical Center. On May 21, 1966, she embarked on a lifelong journey of love and devotion when she married Joseph Hermansdorfer, her beloved husband of almost 58 years.

Throughout her career, Nancy was a dedicated caregiver who touched countless lives with her warm spirit and unwavering dedication. From her early days at Mercy Medical Center to her time at the Red Cross in Baltimore, she epitomized the essence of nursing. However, it was in Hagerstown, MD, where Nancy truly found her calling, caring for the elderly in geriatrics as an RN, following her family's relocation in 1977. Her compassionate nature and tender care brought comfort and solace to those in their golden years, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

Nancy's happiness stemmed from her family, who held the highest place in her heart. She departs from this world, leaving behind the love of her life, husband, Joe, and her children, Terri (& Paul) Baker and Michael (& Michelle) Hermansdorfer, as well as her dear sister, Edith Noll. She was also a cherished sister-in-law to Marlene MacGregor and Bob Smith. Nancy's enduring love continues through her adored grandchildren, Andrew (Dani), Aric (Ava), Hannah, Ava, Megan (Nate), and Brent, who brought immense joy and happiness into her life. Nancy also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, as well as numerous treasured family and friends.

Her grandchildren held a special place in Nancy's heart, and she always supported their dreams and activities with love and encouragement. Many beautiful memories were made singing and dancing together with all the family “littles” through the years, with her children, grandchildren, and nieces & nephews with songs like "You Are My Sunshine” and “Chick-A-Boom-Chick-A Boom.”

Nancy's nurturing spirit extended beyond her profession to her family and friends. For many years, she lovingly crafted homemade invitations, favors, games, and decorations for family birthday parties, showers, and holidays. Her creativity and attention to detail created lasting memories for all who attended, a testament to her love and care. She selflessly cared for many physically and emotionally. Her personalized cards were a source of comfort and joy, bringing smiles to the faces of those celebrating life's moments. Nancy's dedication to her family and friends was unwavering, and her love and care will be deeply missed.

Rest in peace, dear Nan, Mom, and Ne-Ne. Your love and kindness will continue to inspire us all, guiding us through each day with grace and compassion.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, April 4, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Rest Haven Funeral Home, 1601 Pennsylvania Ave., Hagerstown.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, April 5, 2024 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Ann Catholic Church, 1525 Oak Hill Ave., Hagerstown with Monsignor J. Bruce Jarboe as celebrant.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to Holly Place Senior Living in Hagerstown, MD, at https://hollyplace.org/how-to-help/ or Hospice of Washington County, MD, at https://hospiceofwc.org/giving/donate-now.