Nancy June Bickford

Nancy June Bickford passed away unexpectedly on June 11, 2024, in San Diego. She transitioned peacefully in the loving arms of her children and adoring husband while they played her favorite music, shared family stories, and told her how deeply loved she was. Unsurprisingly, she donned perfectly manicured nails and freshly styled hair. Described by her friends and family as optimistic, engaging, and genuinely caring, Nancy was a rare gem in this world.

Nancy had many notable accomplishments, but her proudest were those as a loving and selfless Mom and proud Nana. Her children and grandchildren were her forever pride and joy. Nancy was a rock for her children, working tirelessly through challenging times to ensure they always felt secure, supported, and unconditionally loved. Her natural parenting style was one of curiosity, affection, and empathy. She taught her children so much, including vulnerability, to always find the bright side, and the importance of being present with everyone you come across in life. She loved welcoming people into her home, which often became the “landing pad” for friends who were drawn to its warm and loving energy.

Nancy loved traveling, a passion that began in the ‘60s, while she traveled the world as a Pan Am stewardess, creating lifelong friends and memories. She prioritized travel with her children, and together, they traveled to France, Italy, Istanbul, Tahiti, and Hawaii, and went on countless unforgettable camping trips. As Nancy eased into retirement, she enjoyed many international voyages with her husband, the love of her life, Ballard Smith. Although Ballard and Nancy met in their 70s, they were true soulmates and best friends. The six years Nancy had with Ballard were the best of her life, largely due to her genuine bond with his children and grandchildren, whom she loved as her own. Nancy and Ballard had recently returned from her dream vacation, where they spent 2 weeks in Paris, “living like locals”. Nancy and Ballard exchanged rings during that trip in Provence. She was so excited to spend the rest of her life with Ballard and their blended family.

As a beloved leader in the San Diego Family Law Community, Nancy’s career journey was nothing short of remarkable. After prior careers as a Pan Am flight attendant, Big 4 auditor, and real estate professional, she embarked on a legal education in her late 40s as a single mother of three. This bold decision was eventually followed by another, as she established her own successful family law firm. Not only was she an attorney, but also a CPA and MBA, evidencing her boundless drive and ambition. In 2008, Nancy won the esteemed Michael Shea Award, recognizing her business integrity and unselfish contributions to mentoring newer family law attorneys. Despite her many professional accolades, however, Nancy’s unwavering empathy, calming presence, and authenticity were the qualities that truly set her apart in her field and endeared her to her clients. She had an uncanny and almost motherly ability to connect with her clients while helping them build strength, confidence, and independence as they stepped into new and often scary realities. She left an indelible mark on the family law community and the lives of many clients.

As we say goodbye to Nancy, we hold onto the memories of her radiant spirit, unparalleled drive, and unwavering dedication to helping others. Nancy, while you were never one to sit still, we hope you are resting in peace. You have left an irreplaceable void in our hearts. The deep positive impact you made on so many will carry your legacy. As your children would always tell you, "We love you to the moon and back." Let us honor her memory by upholding the values and dedication she exemplified.

Nancy is survived by her 3 children, Ashley, Brittany, and Reggie; their spouses, Taylor, Tyler, and Anayeli; her 6 grandchildren, Sky, Brady, Stella, Evelyn, Cooper, and Eden; her devoted husband, Ballard; her sister, Barbara; her niece, Kira, Ballard’s children, Amy, Allison, and Amanda, and his grandchildren, Serena, Isabel, Scotty, Nathan, Lauren, Megan, Anya, Catherine, Edward, James, Tommy, Taylor, Dakota, Bella, Lily and Lily; her ex-husband, Michael, his three children, Lauren, Ryan, Greg; and Luz Maria and Jocelyn, who meant the world to her. She is joined in Heaven by Ballard’s daughter, Holly, and her niece, Dawn. She will be profoundly missed.

In place of flowers, please consider donating to The Nancy Bickford Foundation, where 100% of proceeds will go toward charities focused on mentoring young and underprivileged women, a cause that was so near and dear to Nancy’s heart.

Donation Link: https://my.foundation/RememberingNancy