Nanci M. Smith

Born in New York City, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Tessie (Salvo) Martin.

Nanci grew up in Southport, CT and received a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts from the University of Connecticut.

Incredibly proud of her time in the Peace Corps, Nanci was selected under President John F. Kennedy to serve as the first wave of volunteers in 1964. She completed her training in Athens, OH and then traveled with a group of close-knit, fellow volunteers to Western Cameroon Africa. While there, Nanci taught children in Buea.

Upon her return home, she worked for the New York Times, married her first husband, Robert Nelson, and had two beloved daughters.

After her marriage with Robert ended, she remarried Esmond D. Smith of the United States Navy. Nanci worked as a travel agent in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, for several years before moving to Japan with her family. Following Esmond’s change of command, she naturally embraced the role of a captain’s wife—hosting gatherings and fostering a strong sense of community among those on base. While in Japan, Nanci taught at her daughter’s schools and fully immersed herself in Japanese culture, developing a deep appreciation for its traditions and exploring a variety of crafts.

Back in the States, Nanci worked for Gaber Travel within Raytheon in Portsmouth until her retirement. Retirement to Nanci meant volunteering. She would help around the Navy base before finding her love and focus in the Navy Thrift Shop which she ran for many years.

Heavily involved in the Portsmouth community, Nanci sat on the Juvenile Board, helping to get underage kids back on track. She was also a volunteer member of the Portsmouth Historical Society as well as the Red Cross.

Nanci’s passions were all creative in nature. She always took pride in her gardens and her crafts, especially Christmas ornaments! Her other passion was sports; she was a very proud UConn Alumni and always stuck by her New York Teams. Go Yankees!

Nanci donated to many charities, her favorites being Pilots to the Rescue, Tiger Creek, Children International, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the ASPCA, and Turtle Island.

She is survived by two daughters, Jessica Driscoll of Bristol and Jennifer Nelson of Portsmouth; one brother, George Martin of Sarasota, FL; two grandchildren, Brendan Doyle of New Hampshire and Orion Driscoll of Bristol; son-in-law, Timothy Driscoll of Bristol as well as her beloved dog Kona (bear).

Her Funeral Services will be private.