Nancy L. McIlwrath

Nancy McIlwrath, 77, of Needham died with her sister by her side on Dec.5, 2024. Born in Boston on Nov. 5, 1947, to Bob and Ruth, she was the youngest of three. She is survived by her sister and best friend Sue, and brother William.

Nancy was very proud of her nephews and nieces William Jr., Tracy, Dean and Melodie, and was blessed to be able to spend time with them during their ‘growing up’ years and into their adult years as they had families of their own. She loved her many grand nephews and nieces - Dan, Kelly, Jeff, Jessica, Charlie, Jenna, Tucker, Jason, Craig and (newest great grandniece) Blair.

She also has cousins in the Boston area, many family members in Ireland where she enjoyed several trips there to meet them and make lifelong friends.

Nancy graduated from Needham High School 1965 and attended Bryant and Stratton College in Boston, graduating with an accounting degree before starting her career at State Street Bank in the Prudential Center. She then worked as a bookkeeper for Harlow-Imrie Corp. in Newton Highlands, becoming part of the Imrie family (the late Bob and Lee).

She finished her career as head bookkeeper for Charles River Association, working there for 31 years.

She cherished weekends in New Hampshire and at the Chase’s cottage on Little Sebago Lake in Maine. Many fun times were spent swimming, boating, celebrating birthdays and spending time with her family.

Nancy was a deacon and elder at the Presbyterian Church in Needham for many years, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime through the Church Focus Group. She also spent a week every summer at the church’s Camp Wilmont, oftentimes with parents Bob and Ruth.

She had an athletic side as well and was an avid bowler.

Perhaps more than anything, she always put others first and was known for her warm, long-lasting hugs. Please remember her in that spirit and know that she is blessed to be where she is now.

A visiting hour will begin at 11 AM on Thurs Dec 12  in the funeral home followed her service at 12 Noon.

Interment will take place at Needham Cemetery. 

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