Nancy Denise Ramos

Born in Lafayette, Indiana, Nancy moved to Southern California with her mother and grandmother at age seven. In spite of her midwestern origin, Nancy proudly proclaimed herself a California Girl and her daughters, Julie and Michelle, inherited her love of the state.

Nancy’s talent at the keyboard was undeniable. Starting lessons at an early age, she was featured in recitals and was soon teaching others to play the piano. While at El Monte High School, she and future husband, Richard, entertained fellow students with their dance band, which they continued after they were married and started their family.

Over the course of her career, Nancy taught private lessons, and played piano and organ at churches, schools and theaters throughout the San Gabriel Valley. In addition to hundreds of weddings and funerals at various locations, she held long term organist positions at Nativity Catholic Church in El Monte, Church of the Annunciation in Arcadia, and El Monte Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), where she and her family were also members.

Nancy’s theater career spanned decades and dozens of local productions of Broadway musicals and light opera, notably at the Old Town Musical Hall in Monrovia, West Covina Playhouse and Sierra Madre Playhouse. She loved accompanying singers and they loved her back. Whether it was mouthing a forgotten lyric to help a singer continue, or vamping the chorus until they caught their breath, she was a singer’s best friend at the keyboard.

Throughout her life, Nancy also brought her expertise and love of music to students as accompanist at various area schools, including Mission High School, Gahr HS, Monrovia HS, South Hills HS, Northview HS, La Salle HS and El Monte Christian School.

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2018, Nancy retained her cheerful nature up until the very end. She was a favorite among staff and residents of her community at Jasmin Terrace in Pasadena for her spontaneous piano playing and her smiling response to every greeting. The staff at Jasmin worked with her family to give Nancy a good quality of life, and supported them through many challenges over the course of her six-year residence.

Nancy died under care of hospice surrounded by loved ones on September 13, 2025. She is survived by her daughters, Julie and Michelle, daughter-in-law, Kathy, and former husband and lifelong friend, Larry (Richard).

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the community performing arts organization of your choice in Nancy’s name.