On Friday, March 27th, 2026 Nancy F. Bostwick age 81, a loving mother, guiding partner, and cherished friend, passed on in Fishkill, NY unexpectedly from complications after a recent fall.  Nancy was a mother, sister, spouse and grandmother, who carried a message to her family about compassion, love, and determination. Nancy was born in Morristownship, NJ on January 14th, 1945 to Harriet and Alfred Budd. Nancy studied as a musician at the University of Maryland and then travelled the country, meeting husband Billy in New Orleans in 1975, before moving to NY. Nancy and Billy were married in 1977 in a surprise Halloween wedding, and celebrated 48 years of marriage together.

Nancy was a great free-minded spirit who cared for the earth, art, and her gardens. Nancy’s passion was her connection to the earth and living things, be it plants, animals, or people. Nancy was always outside planting in the garden. Whether from seedling, or saving a plant, Nancy put her energy toward building a connection and intentionality. Through her love for the outdoors and sunshine, she radiated her energy to everyone she knew and met along the way. Many stories exist where Nancy went out to the store, a party, or a family gathering, and made a lifelong friend.

Nancy leaves a legacy of determination to master a task. This was evident in her quest to win in Canasta against any opponent. She had a connection to color and a musical ear throughout life. Her musical ability will be remembered through her grandchildren, and others who play music who she influenced.

Nancy leaves behind a loving spouse, Billy, two children, Andrew and Geoff, and their spouses, Rachelle, and Geneva. Five grandchildren, Liam, Emery, Isaac, Lucy and Frederick. She also leaves behind a sister, Dorothy Ruggerio, and a sister in law, Lucy. Nancy is preceded in her death by her parents, Harriet and Alfred, and a sister, Sue.

A celebration of life gathering is being planned for this summer with a date and location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, Nancy would have loved a donation to organizations that support bird and bee pollination. Plant a tree or bush for Nancy, or walk in a park near you.

Happiness is a journey, not a place. Whatever the passion, Nancy was grateful to be happy and joyous with others.