Nancy Helene Romary

Born on May 4, 1935, to Nicholas Gilberti, who emigrated from Italy, and Helene Olberg of Norway, Nancy was raised in Havertown, PA, alongside her brother, Grant. She attended Villa Maria Academy in Malvern, PA, and later took evening classes while working in the trust department of a local bank, demonstrating the determination and work ethic that would define her throughout her life.

Nancy married William “Bill” Hegarty Sr., a Villanova University football standout who played in the College All-Star Game before joining both the Washington Redskins and Pittsburgh Steelers. Bill later entered the insurance business and was inducted into the Villanova Hall of Fame. Together they raised their two children, Robyn and William Jr., in Havertown while creating countless cherished memories at their second home on Long Beach Island, NJ—a place where family, friends, and neighbors always knew they were welcome.

While raising her family and managing two homes, Nancy successfully owned and operated two children’s clothing stores. Yet she was perhaps best known for her remarkable modeling career, which spanned more than five decades. Along the way she was crowned Mrs. Home Show and accumulated enough memorable stories to last a lifetime—including surviving a tumble from an elephant during a photo shoot, a story she delighted in sharing.

In her fifties, Nancy earned her real estate license, opening another rewarding chapter in her life. It was through real estate on Long Beach Island that she met Nelson Romary, who would become her second husband. Together they shared a love of travel, adventure, and entertaining, exploring the world while always returning to the place they loved most—LBI. Eventually they became snowbirds before settling permanently in Hobe Sound, FL.

After Nelson’s passing in April 2020, Nancy moved into assisted living, where she quickly became a beloved resident. Her children relocated nearby and remained a constant presence in her life. Staff members and caregivers at Stuart Senior Living affectionately nicknamed her “Fancy Nancy,” a reflection of her vibrant personality, warmth, and unmistakable style.

Nancy is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Robyn Baron; her son, William “Bill” Hegarty Jr.; her sister-in-law, Yvonne Gilberti; nephews Grant and Neal Gilberti; daughter-in-law Donna Hegarty; grandchildren Asher Baron, Skylar Hegarty, and Sierra Hegarty; niece Norma Grecco; nephew Nick Grecco; great-nephew Michael Hegarty; great-great-nephew Theron Hegarty; and by her cherished “adopted” daughters, Debra Morrell and Debbie Weiss, along with their families.

Nancy’s greatest gift was making people feel welcome. Her home—and even more so, her heart—were always open. She lived with generosity, elegance, laughter, and boundless energy, touching countless lives through her kindness and friendship. To many she will be affectionately remembered for her “Nana Manners”, a reference that reflects both her grace and the lessons she passed on to those she loved.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to the charity of your choice.