Nancy M. Eldridge

Nancy Marie Eldridge, 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 13, 2024, at home with her daughters by her side. She was born in Elizabeth NJ to the late Paul and Helen Winne. She grew up in Brick Township, and later spent most of her life in Millstone, NJ before settling in Cape Coral, Florida.

She graduated from Brick Township High School in 1964 and went on to be a housewife, homemaker, and mother extraordinaire. After being a devoted stay-at-home mom, Nancy pursued a career in the Millstone Public School District as a cafeteria monitor and eventually became a school bus driver. She formed strong bonds with the children on her bus routes, always showing concern for their well-being and developing lifelong bonds with many.

Until her COPD made it impossible, Nancy enjoyed playing golf, whale watching, walking on the beach, and vacationing at all of her favorite tropical islands. What she enjoyed even more was just spending time socializing with family and friends. However, what she loved the most in her life was having a glass of wine with her husband and spending time with her girls.

Nancy was a dedicated mother first and foremost. She treasured her children and embraced every moment with them. She had a vivacious personality and always loved with all her heart. Nancy will be best remembered by all for her beautiful smile.

She was predeceased by her loving husband Donald of 33 years in 2021; her eldest daughter Irene Brandenburg in 2016, second child Derek Wikander in 1971, and brother Edwin Winne in 2016. She is survived by her brother Richard Winne; daughters Tracey Wikander and Kelly Wikander; grandchildren Sabrina Pellagrino, Dillon Fernandez, and Alex Fernandez; and great grandchildren McKenzie Walden, Zander Fernandez, and Rowan Fernandez.

Please join us in celebrating her life on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 5:00 – 8:00 PM at the Quinn-Hopping Funeral Home, 26 Mule Road, Toms River, NJ 08755. Although she loved flowers, for 33 years Nancy’s COPD prevented her from having them in her house so feel free to surround her in them now.