Nancy T. Gillespie

Nancy T. Gillespie
September 30, 1934 – May 25, 2025

Nancy T. Gillespie, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 25, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born and raised in Valley Stream, New York, Nancy was the cherished daughter of the late Peter and Mary Byrnes. She was also the loving sister of the late Dolores Wills and Robert Byrnes. Nancy was predeceased by her first husband, Robert Gillespie, and her daughter, Nancy Gillespie Kelly.

Nancy is survived by her devoted daughter, Susan Gillespie Renaldo (John Palmieri), and her treasured grandchildren: Peter Lauricella, John Kelly (Maria Diaz), Danielle Renaldo, and Matthew Renaldo. She also leaves behind her dear best friend, Barbara Crowell, many cousins, nieces and nephews and her beloved Maltese companion, Gingie.

Nancy began her career as a secretary for United Trust in New York City and then at Valley Stream Central High in the truant office. After marrying Robert Gillespie and starting a family, tragedy struck when Robert passed away at just 33 years old. With strength and unwavering love, Nancy raised her two daughters, both under the age of two at the time, ensuring they were surrounded by love, stability, and the support of their grandparents,  Mary and Peter Byrnes and George and May Gillespie.

As a young widow, Nancy married Thomas Zoeller and settled in Seaford, where she lived for 61 years on Marlow Court. Though she and Thomas divorced after a few years, Nancy embraced her independence, choosing the single life and continuing to date into her early 80s.

She worked for over 30 years as a nurse’s aide and later as a transportation aide in a nursing home, bringing her warmth, humor, and compassion to those she served. Nancy was a true Seaford staple, known for her radiant smile, quick wit, and unmistakable charm. Her gift of gab made her unforgettable to all who met her.

Beautiful, intelligent, and endlessly resilient, Nancy faced life’s hardships with grace and grit, none greater than the heartbreaking loss of her beloved daughter Nancy in 2017. Still, she carried on, finding joy in her grandchildren, friends, and her beloved Gingie. Holidays were always brighter with her presence, and her unforgettable commentary brought laughter to every gathering.

If you knew Nancy, or were lucky enough to hear one of her legendary stories, look to the heavens and smile. The two Nancys are reunited now, and heaven is surely a livelier place for it.

The family asks in lieu of flowers donations can be made to Bideawee in Wantagh at https://www.bideawee.org/

Mass of Christian Burial Monday, June 2nd 9:30 AM

St. William the Abbot RC Church, Seaford, New York

Interment to follow at St. Charles Cemetery, Farmingdale, NY