Nancy Watanabe

November 24, 1932 – July 16, 2026

Nancy Watanabe passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of love, family traditions, and cherished memories. Her gentle and easygoing nature touched everyone who knew her.

Nancy found great joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved cooking, gardening, and fishing. She continued to enjoy her springtime fishing trips to Mammoth Lakes well into her early eighties, often catching the biggest fish among her church friends. Cooking was her love language, which she happily expressed by preparing delicious meals for her family. She also took great pride in passing on the treasured Japanese tradition of Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year) to her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Through these traditions, she shared not only her heritage but also the importance of family, gratitude, and togetherness.

Nancy's Christian faith was an important part of her life. She was a longtime member of Gardena Valley Baptist Church, where she formed lasting friendships, volunteered in church activities, and enjoyed traveling abroad with fellow church members.

Nancy is survived by her two daughters, Chris Shimizu and Jo Ann Shimizu Wood; her son, Joey (Sandy) Watanabe; her six grandchildren, Danika, Dylan, Daryn, Zoey, Ryden, and Jase; and her great-grandson, Niko. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ben Watanabe; her beloved daughter, Doreen Shimizu; and her four younger siblings, Katsuko, Fumiko, Sumiko, and Shuichi.

Nancy will be remembered for her gentle spirit, warm smile, quiet strength, and love for her family. The kindness she showed, the traditions she instilled, and the values she embraced will live on in the hearts of those who loved her for generations to come.

A celebration of Nancy's life will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Gardena Valley Baptist Church. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend.