Nancy Lee Ferraro

Nancy Lee Ferraro, a woman of warmth, courage, and indomitable spirit, passed in peace on July 24, 2025, at the age of 96. She spent her final ten weeks at The Life Care Center of Port St. Lucie, Florida, where she was cherished by new friends and dedicated caregivers—a chapter that followed over 30 years of independence in her home in Indiantown, Florida. Nancy was known to say, “I will make my way,” and she did so with a strength and grace that inspired all who knew her.

Born in Ohio, Nancy moved to New York and eventually to Baltimore, Maryland, where her father, Elmer Smith, worked as a civil engineer for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. Her mother, Lillian Gertrude Smith, was an employee at Hutzler's Department Store in Baltimore.

A graduate of Catonsville High School, Nancy spent many of her formative years in Poolesville, Maryland, raising her three children: Cynthia Morgan of Fletcher, North Carolina; Glenn Goldburn of Ijamsville, Maryland; and Jane Beigel of Dover, Pennsylvania. She dedicated over two decades of her professional life to Liberty Mutual Insurance Company, serving in higher levels of administration eventually relocating to Philadelphia. In 1991, she and her husband, Lawrence Ricketts, retired to Indiantown, Florida. Nancy was a beloved stepmother to Merle Ricketts, Cricket Barazotto, and Sam Ricketts Schulz, and a loving presence to Cricket's sons, Stephen Clare, Matt Clare and Joseph Barazotto.

Nancy’s enduring legacy continues through her grandchildren: Celeste Morgan Herrera of New York City, Marie Beigel Collins of Oceanside, California, and John Beigel of Dover, Pennsylvania. Her great-grandchildren—Araceli, Bernadette, Cosme, Calvin, and Lucas—will miss her presence and remember the joy she brought to their lives.

In 2007, Nancy married Joseph Ferraro, finding a new chapter of companionship and a broader family that included his children, Rick, Gene, and Leslie.

In her early years, Nancy was a talented dancer with an outgoing personality and wisdom beyond her years. While raising her children, she was an active member of her community, serving on school committees and contributing her time to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church. A true sportswoman, she enjoyed tennis, golf, and swimming. Later in life, she found great pleasure in bridge and various card games. She served as Chair of the woman’s guild at The Church of the Advent, successfully raising funds for its outreach programs.

“Life doesn’t owe me a thing” she remarked to her family. Nancy made her mark on the world with a practical approach to life, a memorable sense of humor, and an unwavering courage. Her example of independence and wisdom will continue to guide her friends and family for years to come.