Arline Nancy Anderson

Arline Nancy Anderson, known affectionately as Nancy, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, on April 16, 2024. She lived a life of boundless love, adventure, and dedication. Born on September 29, 1946, in Dover, Ohio, she was the daughter of Helen L. (Wilton) Graff and Curtis J. Graff. Nancy is survived by her husband Ken, daughters Julie Cochran and Kate Anderson (Mark Burge), three grandchildren, Caden, Brady and Reese, sister Mary Ann (Buddy) Upshaw, sister-in-law Libby (Paul Nurnberg) Anderson, and three grandchildren by love Tori (Andrew) Cange, Kobi Davis, Madison Burge, and great grandchild Declan Cange. Nancy and Ken resided in Rhode Island, California, Wisconsin, and Ohio before settling in Florida in 2018. Nancy's journey was one of remarkable achievements and profound connections, marked by her unwavering commitment to family, nursing, and exploration.

After graduating from Altoona High School in 1964, Nancy pursued her passion for nursing, earning her BSN from Alfred University in 1968. Her marriage to Ken marked the beginning of a beautiful partnership that spanned 56 years, filled with shared experiences and unwavering support. Together, they embarked on adventures across the United States and the world.

Nancy's zest for life extended far beyond geographical boundaries. She found immense joy in traveling with her loved ones, exploring numerous countries across Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, Central America, and Southeast Asia. However, her deepest joy lay in the bonds she shared with her family. Her daughters, Julie and Kate, were the center of her world, and her role as grandma to Caden, Brady, and Reese brought her immeasurable happiness.

Throughout her 32-year career at The College of Wooster, Nancy's dedication to nursing and student wellness was unwavering. Starting as a nurse, she eventually became the director of the Longbrake Student Wellness Center, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the lives of countless students. Her leadership extended beyond the campus, as she actively contributed to organizations like the Ohio College Health Association, American College Health Association, and American College Health Foundation.

Nancy's passion for mentoring young adults was evident in her transformative work with college students aged 18-22. She nurtured meaningful relationships, guiding students through their academic and personal journeys with compassion and wisdom. Her efforts to broaden their cultural horizons and foster appreciation for global diversity left a lasting impact on those she mentored.

In memory of Nancy's extraordinary life, please consider contributions to a charity close to your heart, The Way Free Clinic in Green Cove Springs, Florida, or the Residents Aid Fund of Penney Retirement Community in Nancy’s memory. Celebration of life gatherings will be held in Penney Farms, Florida on May 2nd, and Wooster, Ohio on September 29, 2024, offering an opportunity for family and friends to honor and remember Nancy's legacy of love, adventure, and service. We will share details as soon as they are finalized.