Nancy R. Bower

Nancy R Bower, 93 of West Chester, PA passed peacefully on February 3, 2025.

Born November 17, 1931 in Oil City, Pennsylvania to Joseph Randolph (Randy) Roess and Julia Snyder Roess. 

Nancy grew up in Swarthmore, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Swarthmore High School with the class of 1949, where she developed lifelong friendships with many of her classmates. Nancy was very athletic playing field hockey, basketball and lacrosse. After high school, she attended Penn State University graduating with the class of 1953.

Nancy taught elementary school and loved to tell stories about the kids she taught, and one in particular, who went on to become quite famous. Eventually, she retired from teaching to take on her most important job of raising her four children. 

Nancy raised her family in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania where she was active in the local community and served on various school committees. She would often be spotted driving around Newtown Square in her pea green Volkswagen Van running errands or driving her kids to and from early morning horseback riding lessons, football, baseball, and softball practices. It was a labor of love. Nancy spent much of her time at St. Albans swim club, the Petticoat softball fields or the Little League candy stand where she could watch the games while catching up with her friends. She received much joy from watching her children pursue their interests. Nancy’s genuine smile and cheerful disposition radiated pure happiness that would put anyone at ease for those lucky to spend time with her. 

Later in life, Nancy was blessed with six loving grandchildren whom she completely adored, creating many memories with them and supporting their activities. Even into her eighties, she would display her athletic skills by playing basketball or swimming with her grandchildren. Nancy was a staunch supporter of Penn State Football, the Phillies, and the Eagles.

Nancy is survived by her children Beth Gardner, Randy Bower (Ginna), Brad Bower, Julie Edwards; her grandchildren Morgan Bower, Megan Edwards, Alexandra Bower, Emily Bower, Michael Bower, Brooks Bower; her sisters Judie Roberts (BK), Randa Sutch (Bill) and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation at 12:30 pm followed by a memorial service at 1:15 pm on Saturday, February 22nd at The Donohue Funeral Home 1627 West Chester Pike, West Chester, PA 19382.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Episcopal Academy Jeffrey A Coale Memorial Fund at 1785 Bishop Hollow Drive, Newtown Square, PA, 19073-1300