Nancy E. Vandergrift

Nancy E. (Cotner) Vandergrift 78, of Mechanicsburg passed away Monday, July 29, 2024, in her home as was her desire. Born August 13, 1945, in Danville, she was the daughter of the late Annette Cotner (Mottern) and Ralph J. Cotner. On February 11, 1967, she was united in marriage with Gary L. “Old Fart” Vandergrift, her husband, friend, and partner for 53 years prior to his passing on July 9, 2020. She graduated from the Polyclinic Nursing program in 1966 and fulfilled her calling as a Registered Nurse in various local hospitals. The final 25 years of her nursing career were spent working alongside Dr. Howard R. Cohen. This was the highlight of her working career, and she would have continued until her last breath if her body would have allowed. In her free time, she served as the President of Washington Fire Company #1 Ladies Auxiliary in Mechanicsburg, for a time also a volunteer with the Hampden Township Ladies Auxiliary. She loved animals, especially dogs, gardening, baking and cooking. Anyone who was fortunate enough to receive birthday, anniversary, get well or sympathy cards from her knew without opening who is was from because of her unmistakable handwriting. If you were extra special, she baked your favorite pie or cake. Nancy is survived by her “daughter” Julia A. Stuart and her husband Ronald of Middletown, her “grandson” Taylor Stuart and fiancé’ Heather Miller, “granddaughter” Jessi D. McClure and husband Colton, of Middletown and her “great-granddaughter”, Sutton Stuart who made her exceedingly happy.

Nancy’s family will be celebrating her life privately. Cremation was private.

Contributions in celebration of Nancy’s life can be made to Easter Museum of Motor Racing, P.O. Box 688, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, www.emmr.org/donate.