Nancy Lynn Schwartz

Nancy was born in Palo Alto, California, where she graduated from Palo Alto High School and then the San Jose School of Nursing. In 1965 she began a long and dedicated career as an emergency room nurse, one that would take her to hospitals in San Jose, Carson City, Reno, Bakersfield, Salinas and Pacific Grove. Nancy’s boundless energy showed in her devotion to her craft. She served as an executive leader of her nurses’ union, helped train the next generation of EMTs, and mentored nurses, doctors and virtually every other professional in her respective emergency rooms.

Nancy was the consummate soccer mom, attending her sons’ sporting events and debate tournaments, whether she was tired from a 12-hour night shift in the ER or not. The family spent their free time traveling, playing tennis, golf, and bowling, as well as cutthroat sessions of Boggle and Hearts.

Nancy's faith was at the center of her life. A pastor's wife, she gave her time and talents generously to the church, gleefully ringing bells, cheerfully singing in the choir, enthusiastically cooking for gatherings, and crafting up a storm for various fundraisers. She was an adored member of every congregation lucky enough to have her.

Perhaps Nancy’s greatest gift was friendship. Nancy was present and supportive, whether her friends delighted in good news or had been devastated by tragedy. Her compassion and fellowship were instrumental to the wide net of enduring relationships, and more than one person has called her an adopted mother.

Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, Clark and Nancy, her husband, Robert, her son, David, her sisters, Helen and Sara, her brother, Jim; and her half-sisters, Sue and Joan. She is survived by her son, Paul, her brothers, John and Jeff, and her grandson, Malcolm.

We will miss you Nancy Lynn.

A memorial service will be held on November Saturday November 21 at 1 pm at First United Methodist Church, 4600 Stockdale Highway, Bakersfield, CA, 93309.