Nancy Lou Szeliga

Nancy Lou Szeliga (Barclay), 81, passed away September 24, 2025, in Seattle, Washington. Throughout her 2½ year journey with Alzheimer’s, she never lost her radiant smile or natural drive to connect with everyone she met.

Nancy was widely recognized as a “connector”—someone who could walk into a room of strangers and, within moments, find common ground and bring people together. Her approachable warmth, bright smile, and generosity resonated with everyone, often turning chance encounters into lasting friendships. Her compassion, endless generosity, and commitment to uplifting others, especially those less fortunate, were at the core of her character.

Faith was a guiding force in Nancy’s life. She grew up attending Seattle First Baptist Church, known for its commitment to outreach, and progressive values. Nancy remained a devoted member until her passing, finding strength and community through her lifelong involvement.

Nancy was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Burt and Alene Barclay, and brother, Richard (Dick) Barclay. Born in Seattle in 1944, Nancy attended Lincoln High School, where she was voted “prettiest smile”. She continued her education at Pacific Lutheran University, where she met her “Eddie” (Ed Szeliga),—charming him with her sense of humor and famed Polish jokes. They married in 1965, and together raised two children, Clay Szeliga and Amy Hoff, and embraced the joy of her granddaughter, Ella Hoff, who filled Nancy’s days with laughter and love.

For several years, Nancy taught kindergarten in Issaquah, cherishing her role as an inspiring educator before dedicating herself to motherhood. When her children were grown, she returned to the workforce, infusing her unique social gifts into roles with the Issaquah and Bellevue Chambers of Commerce, helping to “connect” and strengthen local businesses and communities.

Nancy’s love of music and performing was evident in her beautiful singing voice, her presence in choir, and her roles in musicals. Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends, bringing joy and light wherever she went. The world is diminished by her loss, but her legacy of kindness and connection endures.