NANCY FORBES

Nancy had the brilliant idea of telling the story of Faraday, Maxwell, and the electromagnetic field in a single book - in hindsight one wonders why nobody had thought of it before. By the time she contacted me ten years ago she had written a complete draft but had failed to interest publishers. She had liked my book about Maxwell and asked for help. After some lively discussion we decided to write the book again from start to finish as co-authors. I would write a chapter or two, Nancy would suggest changes, and when we were happy with the result we would move on. Naturally there were a few arguments but we generally saw eye to eye. We both disliked the coldly analytic approach favoured by some scientific historians and wanted instead to write a story that could be read like a novel. Our book has sold over 30,000 copies and we have had thanks from delighted readers around the world, I heard of Nancy's death only when one of them found this obituary. We knew each other only through emails and a couple of telephone calls but we were a good partnership and created something to be proud of. I shall miss her.

It's already 9 months since Nancy left us, and I think about her often. She was a good friend - always concerned for me and my family, always ebullient and full of interest, and very caring. She had a great zest for life and we had a ton of fun together when I lived in NoVA and when I came back to visit. I always knew I had a place to stay with Nancy and I miss that - her apartment and cats, our long conversations and laughs - very much. Nancy, you left us much, much too soon and I am so sorry you never got to realize your retirement dream. I'm going to live it for you, my friend, and try not to forget to feel gratitude for every day. x

Nancy was very caring we were in the same sorority and I found her to be kind and genuine! What an amazing life she led!! May God bless her friends and family! She was one of a kind!

It is with great admiration and awe that I read of my friend from high school. What an amazing life she led. Nancy was looking forward to our 50th high school reunion and how much better we all would be to have seen her again and had her share her life with us. I will miss you. My sympathy to Susan, who I was neighbors with when the family was in Roanoke.

Nancy was an enthusiastic participant with Clan Forbes at the annual Alexandria Scottish Christmas Walk and the Virginia Scottish Games. She was a driving force behind the revitalization of the Clan Forbes Society, one of the incorporators of the new 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, and its first vice president. She assisted me in planning our first Clan Forbes Ancestral Tour of Scotland, which was unfortunately delayed due to COVID-19. As President of the Clan Forbes Society, I want to extend my deepest sympany to her family -- and deepest gratitude for the life force that was Nancy Forbes. Grace Me Guide.